Iowa Football Top Prospects Narrow College Choices

Iowa State football recently lost safety recruit Brayden Thomas to Michigan State, reducing their 2026 recruiting class to 12 commits amid ongoing official visits and recruitment activity. One of Iowa’s top high school prospects, safety Jayden McGregory, has narrowed his college choices to Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and Louisville, with a commitment decision expected on July 7; he is noted for his versatility and special teams ability. Kentucky is competing for quarterback Matt Ponatoski, a highly ranked recruit from Ohio, who has a final four including Alabama, Arkansas, and Oregon. Meanwhile, former Iowa State wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson, a sixth-round NFL draft pick, is struggling to secure a role with the Houston Texans amid increased competition from new wide receiver additions. McGregory’s recruitment highlights the competitive landscape among major conferences, and Kentucky’s pursuit of Ponatoski aims to bolster their quarterback depth beyond relying on transfers. Iowa State continues to build its program but faces challenges in recruiting and transitioning players successfully to the professional level.