BREAKING: Iowa Hawkeyes Land Ohio State Transfer DB Cody Haddad – 5 Reasons Hawkeye Fans Are Going Wild!
Fans are thrilled about the Iowa Hawkeyes’ unexpected recruiting victory in acquiring Ohio State transfer DB Cody Haddad. Although Tennessee, Nebraska, and Texas A&M were also interested in the defensive back, Iowa ultimately prevailed. The defensive back visited Iowa City on Monday.
A three-star safety in the 2025 recruiting class, Haddad is a 5-foot-11, 186-pound prospect from St. Ignatius High in Cleveland. He received his first offer from Iowa in January 2024, demonstrating the program’s ongoing interest. Five major reasons to celebrate are currently generating a lot of buzz among fans. Getting a commitment from Ohio State is a big-ten victory.
Ohio State transfer DB brings big-play potential
Iowa recently acquired a player with significant potential. After graduating from high school, the 5-11, 186-pound Haddad was a three-star defensive back. He brought a year of preparation from a top program because he redshirted at Ohio State, where he did not play a single snap. With a full year of college strength and conditioning under his belt, he might be prepared to contribute right away when he arrives at Iowa.
It’s easy to see how his addition would significantly improve Iowa’s secondary because fans adore how defenders of his size and speed can stop big plays and even score. His adaptability to different schemes may force him to play sooner rather than later.
Proven player development in Iowa City
It’s the coaching for Iowa. Phil Parker, the safeties coach, and Kirk Ferentz are known for elevating underappreciated players to stardom. This offseason, Ferentz has specifically given priority to these young, unproven players because he believes his staff can develop them into defenders who are ready for the NFL.
In other words, Haddad will receive elite coaching because Iowa is a “development factory.” The Hawkeye method frequently yields All-Big Ten or All-American players, and Iowa’s program has a proven track record of success. Recent Hawkeye defensive backs have flourished under Parker, and Iowa’s record speaks for itself.
Iowa wins recruiting battle against stiff competition
Haddad’s choice of Iowa was not certain. According to reports, he was scheduled to visit Texas A&M, Tennessee, and Nebraska. To put it another way, the Hawkeyes were able to secure his commitment by outperforming major programs, including some SEC schools.
Supporters claim that’s a recruiting coup and evidence that Iowa can compete on a national level for talent. In summary, fans are thrilled about Iowa’s acquisition of a player that rival schools were vying for. It was called a statement signing by analysts.
Ready to hit the field after a redshirt season
Another major cause for enthusiasm: Haddad is a little more polished when he gets to Iowa. Last season, he was a true freshman at Ohio State, but he chose to redshirt rather than play. This indicates that he has already completed a full year of strength training, defense training, and college practice.
He now has four years left in his eligibility before joining the Hawkeyes. Fans view this as a plus because Haddad shows up smarter and stronger, prepared to demand early playing time. Suddenly, Iowa’s defense has another young player who could make an immediate impact. Additionally, if necessary, he could immediately enter the lineup due to NCAA transfer regulations.
Hawkeye Nation reaction: fans are going wild
Hawkeye supporters are applauding this pickup on social media. One recruiting insider tweeted, “If I’m Cody Haddad, I’m going to Iowa IMMEDIATELY,” demonstrating their excitement. That sentiment encapsulates the current feelings of many supporters.
Fans are overjoyed to see the roster strengthened after losing a few defensive backs in the portal. Iowa’s fan base is booming, from forums to tailgates. The enthusiasm demonstrates Hawkeye Nation’s genuine belief in Haddad’s potential. Even blogs and podcasts are feeling the effects of the buzz.

In the end, adding Cody Haddad checks a lot of boxes for Iowa football: a young player with upside, elite coaching, and a motivational win on the recruiting trail. Hawkeye fans are going wild, and with reason this commitment could pay dividends in Iowa City for years to come. Congratulations to the Hawkeyes and their newest defensive back, Cody Haddad!
Cody Haddad’s addition to Iowa football ultimately satisfies a number of requirements, including having a young player with potential, top-notch coaching, and a recruiting victory. Hawkeye supporters are going crazy, and for good reason Iowa City may benefit for years to come from this dedication. Congratulations to Cody Haddad, the Hawkeyes’ newest defensive back!