The NCAA transfer portal now has another well-known player from Iowa’s defensive backfield.
Kael Kolarik, a redshirt junior defensive back, closed a four-year chapter in Iowa City that included consistent depth contributions and special teams work over several seasons by announcing Friday afternoon that he intends to look for a new program for his final season of eligibility. Kolarik, who stands 6 feet 210 pounds, played in 41 games during his Hawkeye career and made appearances in all 13 of the 2025 season. Despite having few defensive snaps this past season, he was a dependable member of Iowa’s team through several coaching cycles and Big Ten contests thanks to his availability and consistency.
During the 2025 season, Kolarik played mostly at safety and recorded 55 defensive snaps in five games, according to Pro Football Focus. He was positioned behind starter Xavier Nwankpa and next to Koen Entringer on the depth chart as a backup free safety going into Iowa’s bowl game against Vanderbilt. In a heartfelt social media post that was full of appreciation, introspection, and unmistakable emotion, Kolarik announced his decision. Kolarik wrote, “I want to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to play the game I love.” “I would like to express my gratitude to my parents for their steadfast assistance during this process. I want to express my gratitude to my coaches for encouraging me to improve not just as a football player but also as a man.
These remarks highlight a common theme among departing Hawkeyes: growth beyond football. Kolarik highlighted the lessons he learned from Iowa’s coaching staff, pointing out that the knowledge and abilities he acquired will last long after his playing career is over.
His message didn’t stop there.
Kolarik went on, “You know I love y’all boys, my teammates.” “I will treasure every second we have spent together. All I take with me is love. For all of you, I am grateful. I created lifelong brothers.
For many Iowa players, those relationships are just as important to their experience as victories or positions on the depth chart. Particularly in his parting words to Hawkeye supporters, Kolarik’s message effectively conveyed that reality.
He wrote, “To Hawkeye Nation, your love and support for this team is truly unmatched and so special.” “Kinnick is unlike any other place.”
Following what he called “many conversations, prayers, and thoughtful reflection,” Kolarik stated that he felt the time was right to access the portal and look into options for his last season of college. Kolarik made 13 career tackles in his four years with the Hawkeyes, mostly on special teams and in rotational roles. Even though he never became a full-time starter, his presence gave a safety room that has continuously been among the most competitive in the Big Ten more depth.
Many Hawkeye supporters are familiar with Kolarik’s journey from Indianola High School to Iowa City as an in-state recruit. Many local prospects have dreams of playing at Kinnick Stadium since they were young, and Kolarik’s dream came true. He now departs with one more season of eligibility and the chance to join a program that might offer more playing time. His departure adds another name to Iowa’s expanding list of transfer portal movements this offseason, a trend that is changing college football rosters across the country. The defeat for Iowa highlights the ongoing balancing act of roster management in the contemporary era, particularly in a secondary that has mainly depended on continuity and experience.
Kolarik’s decision signifies the end of a significant tenure characterized by tenacity, loyalty, and pride in donning the black and gold, even though his on-field role may not have always been in the spotlight. It’s unclear where he will land next. It’s evident that Kael Kolarik departs Iowa with appreciation, respect for the program, and a desire to maximize his one and only collegiate season, wherever that opportunity may lead.
