Iowa City- There’s still a little over two months until College Football is back in action, but that has never stopped Phil Steele from releasing his preseason awards. Ten Hawkeyes garnered preseason honors.
Tory Taylor, the senior punter, received praise throughout the season in 2022-23 after the Hawkeyes showed the inability to move the ball. The result was a Second-Team selection by the Associated Press after averaging 45.4 yards on his 82 punts. Steele tabbed him a preseason First-Team All-American.
Cooper DeJean also received All-American preseason honors as part of the Second-Team selections. DeJean could cover and make a hit as he tallied 75 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 8 pass breakups. He was named First-Team All-Big Ten by the media and Second-Team All-Big Ten for his play in his sophomore season. His play helped Iowa be ranked the 2nd best defensive in total defense.
Taylor and DeJean were also named preseason First-Team All-Big Ten along with sophomore place kicker, Drew Stevens. Stevens converted 16 of his 18 field goal attempts as his only misses came from 40+ yards.
Junior tight end Luke Lachey, junior defensive end Deonte Craig, and senior defensive tackle Logan Lee were named Second-Team All-Big Ten for the preseason. Expect Lachey’s 6’6” frame to be a safety valve in the middle of the field and in the redzone as he had the team lead in touchdowns last season. Craig and Lee will anchor the defensive line that ranked 12th in rush defense.
Defensive end Joe Evan and kick returner Kaleb Johnson were named preseason Third-Team All-Big Ten. Lastly, offensive tackle Mason Richman and safety Quinn Schulte were named Fourth-Team All-Big Ten.
The Hawkeyes start their season at home on September 2nd against Utah State at 11 am.