Lessons Learned from Iowa Football’s Early Departures from the Transfer Portal Although the transfer portal dust hasn’t settled in Iowa City yet, the movement is already beginning to reveal the Hawkeyes’ future. Even though the portal window is still open and flexible, a number of Iowa players have left the school in quest of new chances, more direct routes to playing time, or just a new beginning.
For a program as stable as Iowa’s, none of these exits seem frightening. Actually, the majority were anticipated. However, one or two departures draw attention and suggest subtle changes taking place in the background. These early portal choices offer important insight into how Iowa’s roster is changing as the 2026 season approaches when you take a broad view.
Let’s break down what these departures really mean.
Running backs: Jaziun Patterson and Terrell Washington Jr.
Terrell Washington Jr. and Jaziun Patterson’s departures are definitely “not surprising.” It became more and more obvious as the 2025 season went on that Iowa was prepared to make changes in its running back room. As the season progressed, Xavier Williams and Nathan McNeil carved out larger roles as the Hawkeyes relied more on younger options behind starter Kamari Moulton. Those photos weren’t taken by accident. They seemed to be a sneak peek at what was to come.
The writing was on the wall for Washington and Patterson. Although both backs were still eligible, their chances of getting regular carries in Iowa’s offense were dwindling. They both agreed that it made more sense to take advantage of opportunities elsewhere rather than wait for few reps in a packed room, which is why they decided to use the portal. With 858 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 195 carries over four seasons, Patterson departs Iowa with a respectable output. Washington added 51 receiving yards with a touchdown on 10 receptions and 182 rushing yards on 49 carries. Good numbers, but they did not ensure a future workload.
These departures are seen by Iowa as a sign of confidence. In keeping with the program’s long-standing preference for internal talent development, the staff seems at ease giving the reins to a younger backfield starting in 2026.
Defensive end: Brian Allen Jr.
If there’s one portal move that truly stands out, it’s Brian Allen Jr.
Iowa has established a reputation for producing defensive linemen—almost like a factory. The Hawkeyes have continuously developed raw or lightly recruited players into elite contributors and NFL prospects over the last ten years. It appeared that Allen might be the next in line. While he was in Iowa City, he showed genuine promise. moments of strength. disruptive performances. growth that hinted at more to come.
That’s what makes his departure surprising.
There were defensive end snaps available after Ethan Hurkett and Max Llewellyn left. Allen appeared ready for a bigger part on paper. Rather, his departure implies one of two things, or perhaps both. Either Iowa feels very confident about the younger defensive linemen in the room, or Allen didn’t see a clear route to becoming an every-down player. Iose Epenesa, whose prospects greatly increase now that Allen is out of the picture, might be one immediate winner.
It’s also important to remember that Iowa is evolving. Holy Cross defensive tackle Brice Steverson and Elon edge rusher Kahmari Brown are scheduled to visit the Hawkeyes, who have already welcomed transfer interest on the defensive line. Instead of raising a concern, that activity suggests a recalibration. After playing in 24 games over the previous two seasons, Allen ends his Iowa career with a total of 34 tackles, five sacks, and 3.5 tackles for loss. In Iowa’s system, the numbers are significant rather than ostentatious.
Safety: Kael Kolarik
Kael Kolarik’s departure flew mostly under the radar, but it deserves attention.
Particularly in the secondary, making 40 appearances over three seasons—14 as a freshman alone—is no small accomplishment at Iowa. Even though Kolarik didn’t play a lot of defensive snaps outside of special teams, the staff’s early faith in him and his availability spoke volumes. However, Kolarik has found it challenging to establish a reliable position on defense due to Iowa’s secondary’s abundance of depth and experience. His switch to the portal seems more like a sensible choice than a surprise.
It might also allude to Iowa’s goals. Anthony Hawkins, a defensive back from Villanova, is one of the secondary transfer options the Hawkeyes have already started looking into. Kolarik’s departure might be a part of a bigger reorganization meant to improve or rebalance the defensive backfield.
Quarterback: Jackson Stratton
Finally, there’s Jackson Stratton—the most expected departure of them all.
Stratton will always hold a special place in Iowa folklore. During a period when the quarterback room was plagued by injuries, he was thrust into action and answered the call without hesitation. He competed, not just survived. Stratton helped lead Iowa to a 2-1 record in three games by completing 21 of 35 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown. We won’t forget those times. But there was just no way forward. The quarterback room was packed with players like Hank Brown, Jeremy Hecklinski, Jimmy Sullivan, and the incoming, highly anticipated freshman Tradon Bessinger.
Both parties can benefit from Stratton’s decision to look for playing time elsewhere. Because he stepped up when the Hawkeyes needed him most, he is remembered, respected, and valued.
The bigger picture
When considered collectively, Iowa’s early departures from the transfer portal don’t indicate a problem. They advocate for change. Young people are given priority. The level of competition is increasing. Decisions are also subtly influenced by roster confidence. Although there is still much time in the portal window, these early actions are already providing insight into Iowa football’s perceived strengths for 2026.
