Nick DeJong returning for sixth season
Iowa offensive lineman Nick DeJong announced today that he is returning to Iowa for another year. The 6-foot-6, 305-pound Pella native will be using his extra COVID year of eligiblity to come back for a sixth season with the Hawkeyes.
“Coming to the University of Iowa five years ago has proven to be a dream come true,” DeJong said in a statement. “My time over these five years has provided me with relationships and lessons I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I have been especially blessed to be surrounded by so many great teammates and coaches, and to be a part of a team led by such a great leader in Coach Ferentz. I will forever be grateful for what my five years at Iowa provided me.
“But, with all that said, there is still more for me here. There’s more on the table, and I can’t walk away from a place like this,” said DeJong. “I am excited to announce I will be returning to fight alongside my brothers in the black and gold one more year. Go Hawks!”
A third-team All-Big Ten selection by the league coaches in 2023, DeJong has starting experience at both guard and tackle for the Hawkeyes. In all, he has appeared in 45 games in his career with 24 starts.
Impact for Iowa
DeJong’s return gives the Hawkeyes more experience and flexibility on the offensive line with his experience at multiple positions. He is the second player to officially announce that he is using his extra year of eligiblity, joining quarterback Cade McNamara. The Hawkeyes are still waiting on decisions from several others including Jay Higgins, Sebastian Castro, Jermari Harris, Quinn Schulte, Kyler Fisher, Nick Jackson, and Erick All, among others. They also have a couple juniors, such as Cooper DeJean and Luke Lachey, that have a decision to make as well.
