Late on Friday night, Iowa football’s activity on the NCAA transfer portal continued as the Hawkeyes lost another defensive contributor. Brian Allen, a redshirt junior defensive end, is the second defensive player from Iowa to formally register on the transfer portal this offseason. Eliot Clough of HawkeyeInsider and 247Sports were the first to report the news, confirming that Allen will look for a new location for his final season of eligibility.
Allen, who weighed 264 pounds and stood 6 feet 3 inches tall, had quietly established himself as a key member of Iowa’s defensive line rotation. His influence was consistently evident on film and in the advanced metrics, even though he wasn’t always the most talked-about name. Pro Football Focus reports that Allen played 282 defensive snaps in 2025 and received a pass-rushing grade of 77.4 and an overall defensive grade of 72.4. These figures showed a player who was dependable, productive, and on the rise.
Allen played in 28 games over the course of three seasons at Iowa. Although his stat line might not immediately stand out, it describes a consistent contributor who took full advantage of his opportunities. With 34 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, two passes defended, and one fumble recovery, Allen concluded his Hawkeye career. Because of his strength and motor, he was frequently used during crucial rotational moments, particularly in pass-rushing scenarios where he could put pressure on quarterbacks and interfere with plays.
Those who kept a close eye on the program could see Allen’s growth beyond the box score. He made a big impression at Kids Day at Kinnick Stadium, where both coaches and fans were impressed by his burst off the edge and improved technique. He also stood out during spring practices. The program was beginning to feel that Allen was about to take the next big step. Many thought he had a real chance to compete for a starting position in 2026 because there would be a number of defensive changes.
This departure is especially noteworthy because of that. After spending time in the system, Allen seemed to be the kind of player Iowa usually builds around: patiently developed, fundamentally sound, and prepared to make an impact. Rather, the last chapter of his college football career will be written somewhere else.
Allen, a native of Lake in the Hills, Illinois, was a three-star recruit when he first joined the Hawkeyes in the 2022 class. He was rated as the third player in Illinois and the 111th best defensive lineman in the country by 247Sports. He gradually made his way into the rotation of one of the most prestigious defensive units in college football after Iowa recognized his long-term potential.
Allen is now one of just two Iowa defensive players to use the transfer portal this offseason, along with safety Kael Kolarik. Even though the numbers are still manageable, every departure is significant, particularly for a program that values internal growth and continuity. It’s never easy to lose experienced depth on the defensive line, especially when that player seemed ready to play a bigger part.
Allen believes that the choice makes sense. With one year of eligibility left, the transfer portal presents an opportunity to look for a position that offers a different scheme fit, a clearer route to starting snaps, or just a new chance to demonstrate his skills. Programs seeking immediate assistance up front are likely to show interest in Allen because defensive linemen with strong PFF grades and demonstrated production don’t stay on the market for very long.
The decision highlights how college football is changing for Iowa. More than ever, players who appear to be on track for larger roles and are developing well are considering their options. The Hawkeyes have already started hosting and offering transfer targets on both sides of the ball, so they will now focus on keeping important players and bolstering the roster via the portal.
Allen’s accomplishments in black and gold remain unaffected by his departure. He was a dependable presence, a rotational defender who performed well every season. His story is similar to the current state of college football in many ways, with opportunity, growth, and difficult choices all coming together at once.
Allen’s absence will be felt as Iowa enters the 2026 season, but it will be interesting to see where he goes next. He will bring experience, a track record of successful pass-rushing, and the drive of a player looking to maximize his last season wherever he ends up.
