Iowa City Football Awards: Celebrating Excellence in 2025

IOWA CITY, Iowa — In a year marked by perseverance and performance, the University of Iowa football program recently honored its outstanding athletes by announcing the 2025 team awards. The spotlight shone bright on senior quarterback Mark Gronowski and sophomore defensive back Zach Lutmer, who were both named the Roy J. Carver Most Valuable Players.

Mark Gronowski: A Record-Setting Season

Leading the Hawkeyes’ offense, Gronowski had a spectacular season. The Naperville, Illinois, native not only guided the team to victories but also broke multiple school records. He set the record for the most single-season rushing touchdowns by a quarterback with 15, alongside accumulating 491 rushing yards. His rush for at least one touchdown in ten straight games stands as a historical feat—the longest streak ever by a Big Ten quarterback.

Gronowski, a graduate of South Dakota State, has now achieved a combined total of 57 wins across both colleges, making him the winningest starting quarterback in NCAA history at any level. His versatility was showcased when he became the first Hawkeye to rush, throw, and receive a touchdown in the same game during a memorable encounter against USC. Gronowski also earned recognition for his sportsmanship as he was honored with the 2025 Big Ten Sportsmanship Award, wrapping up his season with 2,020 yards of total offense, comprising 1,529 passing and 491 rushing yards.

Zach Lutmer: Defensive Dynamo

On the defensive side, Zach Lutmer emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The Rock Rapids, Iowa, native made history by becoming the first sophomore to earn team MVP honors since offensive lineman Tyler Linderbaum in 2020. Lutmer was a standout player, leading the squad with three interceptions, totaling 72 yards. He also ranked among the team’s top players with six pass break-ups, 68 tackles, and 5.5 tackles for loss across his 12 starts. His 34-yard interception return against Minnesota not only highlighted his skills but also helped extend Iowa’s pick-six streak, which now spans 18 seasons.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Lutmer received second-team All-Big Ten accolades from league coaches.

Leadership Inside the Locker Room

The Hawkeyes also recognized their leadership squad by naming five permanent team captains for the 2025 season. This roster included graduate center Logan Jones and Gronowski on offense, alongside defensive players junior Koen Entringer and graduate Ethan Hurkett, as well as graduate Kaden Wetjen on special teams.

Logan Jones, a cornerstone of the offensive line, was pivotal throughout the season, contributing to a unit that became a finalist for the Joe Moore Award. Notable achievements for Jones include being named an Outland Trophy and Rimington Trophy finalist, as well as earning first-team All-Big Ten honors from coaches and media. With 50 career starts, Jones has excelled, achieving a perfect score from Pro Football Focus without a single offensive holding penalty in 2025.

Special Teams Spotlight

Kaden Wetjen garnered the distinction of being the first two-time recipient of the Big Ten’s Rodgers-Dwight Return Specialist of the Year Award. His remarkable season included leading the nation with 965 combined kick return yards—260 yards ahead of his closest competitor. Wetjen’s standout performances were characterized by multiple long-distance returns, including a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Rutgers. His stellar statistics also saw him maintain an average of 28.3 yards in punt returns, placing him at the top of the Big Ten’s history.

Koen Entringer, starting as a free safety for all 12 games, was another key contributor on the field. He recorded impressive stats, including 69 tackles and four pass break-ups, showcasing both his skill and consistency.

Awards Night Highlights

As the Hawkeyes celebrated their key players, several additional awards were presented. The Hayden Fry “Extra Heartbeat” Award recognized Gronowski and Jones, along with other exemplary team members who demonstrated leadership and dedication throughout the season.

With the focus shifting to special teams, the Reggie Roby Special Teams Award was shared among Wetjen, senior kicker Drew Stevens, and junior linebacker Landyn Van Kekerix. Stevens had an exceptional year, tying a career-high with 20 field goals, and even matched the Iowa and Kinnick Stadium record with a massive 58-yard field goal against Oregon.

Academic and Service Recognition

Academics were also celebrated, with the Forest Evashevski Academic Achievement Award going to senior lineman Gennings Dunker, and the Bump Elliott Appreciation Award given to media directors Justin Elsner and Drew Kocken for their contributions in enhancing the Iowa football experience for fans.

The Distinguished Service Award was awarded to football custodian Doug Kray, honoring his unwavering support for the program throughout the years.

Looking Ahead

As the Hawkeyes gear up for their upcoming matchup against the No. 14 Vanderbilt Commodores in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31, they aim to secure their 23rd bowl appearance in the last 27 seasons, continuing to build on a strong tradition under head coach Kirk Ferentz. With countless accolades and standout performances behind them, Iowa football is eager to showcase its talents on the national stage.