After portal entry, the Hawkeyes are keeping an eye on an intriguing transfer quarterback option. Fans’ perceptions of Iowa’s quarterback future have changed as a result of the team’s recent success in the transfer portal, and it seems the Hawkeyes might not be finished looking just yet. Marcus Stokes, a quarterback from West Florida who recently signed up for the transfer portal, is reportedly being monitored by Iowa after they struck gold with Mark Gronowski. The interest alone shows that Iowa is actively considering its options at the most crucial position on the field, even though no commitment is expected anytime soon.
Gronowski’s one and only season in Iowa City was truly life-changing. The seasoned quarterback arrived as a proven winner following a legendary career at South Dakota State, where he threw for 10,330 yards and 93 touchdowns. But things didn’t start out well for him with the Hawkeyes. Early-season bumps and bruises slowed his rhythm, and a shoulder injury kept him out of action until the summer. Gronowski took off once he was well.
By the end of the season, he had completely altered Iowa’s record book, establishing new program records for quarterback rushing yards in a single season (491) and rushing touchdowns (15). His ability to prolong plays and penalize defenses on the ground gave Iowa an offensive boost it had been lacking, making it easier for supporters to forget about earlier quarterback portal misses. As Gronowski’s college eligibility draws to a close, Iowa is once again considering his options. Marcus Stokes comes into play in this situation.
After a convoluted recruiting process, Stokes, a former four-star high school prospect from Nease High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, joined West Florida in 2023. He was regarded as one of the more gifted quarterbacks in his class when he graduated from high school, and his aggressive play style and arm talent attracted national attention. Stokes is a quarterback “who isn’t afraid to take risks,” according to 247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins, who even likened Stokes’ mindset and style to that of current NFL quarterback Kenny Pickett.
When a contentious video of Stokes using a racial slur came to light, his initial commitment to the University of Florida vanished. Stokes had to restart his career after the Gators quickly withdrew his offer. At the Division II level, he accomplished precisely that. Stokes became one of the nation’s most dangerous quarterbacks, regardless of division, during a successful sophomore campaign at West Florida. In addition to being a real threat on the ground with 367 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, he threw for 3,297 yards and 30 touchdowns. Due to his performance, he was selected as a finalist for the Division II Heisman Trophy, the Harlon Hill Trophy.
Naturally, such a production attracts attention, and Iowa is by no means the only program to do so. Nevertheless, considering their current roster situation, the Hawkeyes’ interest makes sense. Iowa’s quarterback room has a lot of potential but not much experience because Gronowski is nearing the end of his eligibility. Jimmy Sullivan, Hank Brown, and returning backup Jeremy Hecklinski have not yet recorded any significant college snaps. Tradon Bessinger, a gifted but unproven prospect who renounced his commitment from Boise State, is also being brought in by the staff. That group has potential, but there is also uncertainty.
Experience counts in today’s college football environment, particularly in a system that prioritizes toughness, efficiency, and decision-making. A room can be stabilized and the competitive floor raised by bringing in a quarterback who has already carried an offense, overcome hardship, and performed at a high level. That describes Stokes. He has demonstrated his ability to manage pressure, lead an offense, and make plays with both his legs and the air. If the Hawkeyes wish to preserve the mobility and versatility Gronowski brought to the position, his aggressive mindset would add an intriguing dynamic to Iowa’s offense.
Naturally, there are no guarantees associated with checking in. As the offseason progresses, Iowa will continue to consider a variety of options because portal recruiting is flexible. However, the Hawkeyes’ early completion of their homework indicates that they are serious about maintaining momentum at quarterback rather than making a fresh start. Iowa supporters have witnessed what the right transfer can accomplish after years of instability under center. The Hawkeyes are now working to ensure they don’t pass up the next chance.
