Iowa Football Transfer Portal Target Chooses Minnesota Over Hawkeyes
One of the early names on Iowa’s radar in the 2026 transfer portal has taken a surprising turn. Iowa football transfer portal target Parker Knutson will be suiting up for the Minnesota Golden Gophers instead of joining the Hawkeyes, keeping his talents in-state but on a rival roster.
Knutson, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound safety from Southwest Minnesota State, was a standout in Division II last season. The Sartell, Minnesota, native not only started all 11 games for the Mustangs but also put up eye-popping numbers that drew attention from multiple FBS programs. He recorded eight interceptions, ranking second nationally in Division II, along with six pass breakups and 14 passes defensed. His consistency in the secondary was clear—he averaged 1.27 passes defensed per game, which placed him 15th in the nation.
Iowa had shown early interest in Knutson and even hosted him in Iowa City after his initial visit to Minnesota. But in the end, loyalty to his home state won out. Knutson will now roam the Gophers’ secondary instead of competing in Phil Parker’s defensive backfield for the Hawkeyes.
For Iowa, this is a setback in a busy early transfer portal window. However, the Hawkeyes have already made a strong addition in the secondary. Former Villanova safety Anthony Hawkins recently committed to Iowa, giving the team a promising new option with three years of eligibility remaining. Hawkins’ arrival in Iowa City comes after a standout freshman season with the Wildcats in 2025. At 6-foot-3, 195 pounds, he racked up 59 tackles, including four for loss, and added two interceptions alongside a forced fumble. His performance earned him FCS freshman All-American honors, marking him as a player capable of contributing right away at the FBS level.
While Knutson’s decision might sting for Hawkeyes fans, the bigger picture for Iowa remains strong. The team continues to actively monitor the transfer portal for talent that can fill key spots. Defensive backs remain a priority, and landing Hawkins shows Iowa can still attract high-level FCS talent ready to step into the Big Ten spotlight.
The news also highlights the competitive nature of the transfer portal, especially within in-state recruiting. Schools like Minnesota and Iowa are constantly battling not just nationally but regionally for talent, and Knutson’s choice underscores how local ties can influence a player’s path. For the Gophers, this is a big win—they’re adding a ball-hawking safety who has a proven knack for turning games with his hands in the air.
It’s worth noting that Knutson’s transition to the FBS level will be closely watched. While his numbers in Division II were impressive, the jump in competition is significant. Still, coaches and scouts alike have noted his instincts, athleticism, and ability to read quarterbacks, which could make him a game-changer in the Big Ten.
For Hawkeyes fans, the takeaway is simple: the transfer portal is unpredictable, but Iowa is still in good hands. Anthony Hawkins brings size, skill, and immediate impact potential to the defensive backfield. Meanwhile, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate and recruit top defensive talent nationwide to keep the Hawkeyes competitive.
As the 2026 season approaches, keep an eye on both sides of the border. Knutson in Minnesota’s secondary and Hawkins in Iowa’s backfield are just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting offseason of transfer portal activity. Rivalries, state pride, and player development will all play a role in shaping the future of Big Ten football, and Iowa fans have plenty to watch and hope for despite missing out on this particular in-state target.
