The pipeline of talent running from the Iowa Hawkeyes to the NFL may be stronger than it has ever been before. The Hawkeyes are pumping out talent year after year that is not only making rosters but instantly transforming into impact players across the league.
The Hawkeyes have stars on both sides of the ball, making game-changing, season-impacting plays at the next level, and continue to send more players, such as 2024 Big Ten Running Back of the Year Kaleb Johnson, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers this year.
Entering the 2025-26 NFL season, CBS Sports released their top 100 NFL players, and the Hawkeyes are lining the list. Coming in highest on the list is a cornerstone piece for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs. Setting the new standard for offensive line contracts, his play has been more than worthy of the hefty deal Tampa Bay offered him.
20. Tristan Wirfs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers OT
Wirfs is one of the two best left tackles in the game, and some would say the best. He excels as a blind-side pass protector for Baker Mayfield and his run blocking is a big part of why the Bucs ran the ball better in 2024. (Last season: No. 24)
Up next is one of Iowa’s favorite sons. Fan-favorite George Kittle, the San Francisco 49ers tight end, comes in at No. 25 on this year’s list due to his do-it-all skillset. Kittle has been a mainstay on this list for most of his career, and that speaks to his talent, plus his longevity, which is equally impressive.
25. George Kittle, San Franciscio 49ers TE
Kittle remains the best dual-threat tight end in the game. He can catch it and he’s a great blocker. Those types of tight ends are hard to find. He had 78 catches with eight touchdowns last season. (Last season: No. 37)
Making a massive jump up the list this year is Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum. Climbing from No. 100 up to No. 53, the Ravens have their long-term answer at center, who has already proven to be a vital part of their run game with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry.
53. Tyler Linderbaum, Baltimore Ravens C
Linderbaum has developed into one of the better centers in the league. He is good in the run game, which helped key Derrick Henry’s big season in 2024. Expect the Ravens to give him a hefty contract extension in the near future. (Last season: No. 100)
Needing just one season to make his way into this list, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback and Iowa star Cooper DeJean cracks the list at No. 85 entering his second year in the league. His skills were evident, and his timing was impeccable with his pick-six in the Super Bowl. Look for DeJean to rapidly ascend this list.
85. Cooper DeJean, Philadelphia Eagles, CB
As a rookie, DeJean displayed outstanding cover skills as a slot corner. He will be asked to play outside more this season, but he has the skill set to handle it. (Last season: NR)
Last, but certainly not least, is the latest representative of TEU. Sam LaPorta, the Detroit Lions star tight end, finds his way into the top 100 at No. 86. Part of an explosive offense, he may not have the targets, but when thrown to, he opens up the Lions’ offense massively.
86. Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions TE
His second-year numbers went down from his rookie season, but that’s because of the emergence of Jameson Williams in the passing game. LaPorta still had 60 catches, with seven for touchdowns, and remains a tough matchup for opposing defenses. (Last season: No. 58)
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Flurry of Iowa football stars line CBS Sports’ top 100 NFL players
Reporting by Riley Donald, Hawkeyes Wire / Hawkeyes Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
