DJ Vonnahme Rising Star: Iowa Tight End Set to Dominate Next Season
DJ Vonnahme rising star has become more than just a headline it’s a reality Iowa fans are celebrating. The redshirt freshman tight end from Breda, Iowa, capped off an electrifying 2025 season by earning a spot on the AP All-Bowl Team, signaling that he’s primed to be a force for the Hawkeyes next year.
Before this season, Vonnahme wasn’t exactly a household name. Most casual fans and even some outside the Iowa program weren’t sure what to expect from the young tight end. But by the second half of the season, he had firmly established himself as one of the Big Ten’s breakout stars. His journey from relative anonymity to All-Bowl recognition is a testament to talent meeting opportunity.
Vonnahme’s Breakout Season
Vonnahme first caught eyes during Iowa’s week-five showdown against Indiana. Targeted seven times, he showcased the route-running and hands that would soon make him quarterback Mark Gronowski’s favorite weapon. From that game onward, Vonnahme became a consistent presence in the Hawkeye passing game. By the end of the season, he led Iowa in receiving yards with 434, including three touchdown receptions an impressive stat line for any tight end, let alone a freshman.
His performance in the ReliaQuest Bowl against No. 14 Vanderbilt was nothing short of spectacular. Vonnahme racked up 146 receiving yards and a touchdown, playing a pivotal role in Iowa’s upset victory. That game not only proved his ability to perform on the biggest stages but also cemented his status as a rising star in college football circles.
All-Bowl Recognition Confirms His Status
Following the bowl game, Vonnahme received national attention when the Associated Press named him to the prestigious All-Bowl Team. This accolade highlights his impact on one of the most significant stages of the college football season. It’s not just recognition it’s a signal to fans, coaches, and opponents alike that DJ Vonnahme is someone to watch closely in 2026.
Iowa’s Loaded Tight End Room
Adding to the excitement, Iowa received good news with starting tight end Addison Ostrenga announcing he will return next season. That means the Hawkeyes will have a formidable one-two punch at tight end, pairing experience with Vonnahme’s emerging talent. And let’s not forget Zach Ortwerth, who was on the preseason Mackey Award watch list, or freshman Thomas Meyer, who got meaningful reps during bowl preparations.
Even with this depth, Vonnahme has made it clear he’s ready to command the field. His chemistry with Gronowski, coupled with his ability to stretch defenses, positions him as a likely starter and focal point of Iowa’s offense. Expect to see his name at the top of the depth chart come kickoff next season.
Looking Ahead
Hawkeye fans have plenty to be excited about. Vonnahme’s rise isn’t just a feel-good story it’s a tangible upgrade for Iowa’s offense. With his combination of size, speed, and hands, he embodies the next era of “Tight End U.” Opponents would be wise to take notice because DJ Vonnahme is poised to make an even bigger splash in 2026.
As the Hawkeyes prepare for another season, the tight end room looks stronger than ever. With Vonnahme leading the charge, supported by Ostrenga, Ortwerth, and Meyer, Iowa could turn one of its traditionally strongest positions into a true offensive weapon. And if his breakout continues, DJ Vonnahme rising star won’t just be a phrase it will be a headline that defines Iowa football next year.
