The Iowa Hawkeyes ended their spring work with one final open practice for fans and media to take in over the weekend.
Though Iowa was without multiple starters, including quarterback Mark Gronowski, there was still plenty of talent on display and a number of key Hawkeyes available.
“Overall, the spring was good. It was productive for us. Saw growth pretty much top to bottom with the roster. And I think one thing that’s been consistent, and this goes back to January, the work ethic and the attitude’s been pretty good from the onset. So, happy about that.
“And then I think our leadership base was surprisingly good prior to spring ball and it continues to grow too. So, I think we have a lot of guys that are really invested in thinking right and acting right, doing those types of things. So, finishes this phase,” Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz said following the Hawkeyes’ open spring practice.
As Iowa turns the page toward summer workouts and then fall camp, here’s some takeaways and observations from Iowa’s open spring practice.
Jackson Stratton is a contender as Iowa’s backup quarterback
On a day where Mark Gronowski only took part in warmup throws, Iowa fans saw extended looks at quarterbacks Jackson Stratton, Hank Brown and Jimmy Sullivan.
Stratton was clearly the most comfortable throughout the day’s proceedings. The 6-foot-4, 193 pound signal-caller led multiple touchdown drives and looked confident commanding Iowa’s offense.
It shouldn’t be a big surprise considering Stratton has been in Tim Lester’s quarterback room the longest dating back to last summer and considering Stratton started a pair of games for Iowa last season. Still, for anyone that thought the backup quarterback job was destined to be someone else’s, Saturday was an indication that Stratton is squarely in the mix.
Hank Brown isn’t afraid to air it…
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Publish date : 2025-04-28 10:45:00
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