Drew Campbell Discusses Iowa Football Pledge

Cedar Falls DL Heading to Brother's Alma Mater

'24 Cedar Falls (IA) DE Drew Campbell on Sept. 17, 2022 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Rob Howe/HawkeyeNation.com)

Drew Campbell being Jack Campbell's younger brother is part of the story. The older sibling might be the best Hawkeye linebacker ever. 

However, Drew wants to be his own man in Iowa City as he was during the recruiting process. His Hawkeye verbal commitment Saturday was personal. 

"Jack had no role in (the recruiting process), for the most part," Drew told HN.  "He would answer questions if I ever had any. Other than that, he didn’t say much because it was my decision and no one else’s."

Drew loves his brother very much but began his process putting out of his mind Jack's best fit. He was looking for what he needed. 

Home-town Northern Iowa and Iowa State offered scholarships to the Cedar Falls High edge last June 14. Iowa followed July 31. Kansas State's came in this February.

Drew Campbell (6-4, 225) visited Iowa State three times, including during the season and on March 23. He'd put recruiting on the back-burner as he was wrestling his way to the state championships. 

As days in March ticked away, Drew thought more about his future. He got that feeling of clarity of where he should go. 

"I think one of the most important things is how they develop you into not only a great player but a great human," he said of the Hawkeyes. 

Drew also bonded with other verbal pledges in Iowa's '24 Class, which includes four other Iowans. 

"I’ve met most of the guys besides maybe two. They are all great guys. I’m really excited to be a part of the ‘24 class," he said. 

Campbell earned second-team all-state honors from Iowa print media and coaches association in '22. He piled up 9.0 sacks and 20.0 tackles for loss as a junior. 

On3 ranks Campbell as a four-star prospect, while Rivals and 247Sports see him as a three-star. He's On3's 21-best edge nationally in '24 with 247 putting him No. 39. 

Campbell feels relieved having part of his future decided. It's time to get back to work. 

"It feels great to finally have my decision made. Now I only am worried about getting ready for my senior year with my team," he said.

Check out Campbell's junior highlights HERE.