Iowa football is facing a significant transition as star safety and defensive captain Koen Entringer has reportedly entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking a pivotal moment for the Hawkeyes’ defensive lineup. This surprising decision was first reported by ESPN’s Max Olson.
Entringer, a prominent presence on the Hawkeyes defense this past season, stood at 6-foot-1 and weighed 211 pounds, starting all 13 games in 2025. His impressive performance included ranking third on the team with 73 tackles, earning him recognition as an All-Big Ten honorable mention. In addition to his tackles, he contributed 3.5 tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and was involved in several key defensive plays, highlighting his significant role in the team’s overall performance.
Throughout his Iowa career, Entringer participated in 43 games, boasting a total of 100 tackles, along with 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and two forced fumbles, showcasing his impact on the field.
The news marks a dramatic shift, particularly given that just days before, Entringer had expressed his commitment to returning for the 2026 season while discussing the importance of improving against ranked teams in a press conference ahead of the ReliaQuest Bowl. His comments reflected a hopeful outlook for next season, aiming for a College Football Playoff appearance.
With Entringer’s departure, Iowa will now look to fill the void left by both starting safeties from the 2025 season, as his fellow safety, Xavier Nwankpa, has also concluded his collegiate eligibility.
As the Hawkeyes prepare for the upcoming season, they face the challenge of rebuilding their defense, but the potential for new talent and strategies may pave the way for new opportunities. The team’s resilience will be tested as they navigate these changes and work towards achieving their goals for the next season.