Meet the Candidates Who Can Elevate Iowa's Passing Game

Iowa has its two top targets receiving praise, but the Hawkeyes can't be reliant on two. It's time for Iowa to have another veteran receiver step up.

Aug 9, 2025; Iowa wide receiver Reece Vander Zee (15) walks on the sideline during the Hawkeyes Kids Day NCAA football open practice at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Cress for the Des Moines Register | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

For the first time in a while, there is a palpable buzz around some of the targets that the Iowa Hawkeyes have in the passing game.

It's been a painful run for Iowa in the 2020s, with production simply lacking from the receivers. Now, it isn't entirely their fault. The quarterback situation is the larger culprit here.

Who Can Take Iowa's Passing Game to the Next Level?

Entering 2026, though, the talent is there in two spots with Tony Diaz at wide receiver and DJ Vonnahme at tight end, but they can't do it alone.

The Iowa Hawkeyes need a veteran wide receiver to take the next step.

Iowa needs a third target to emerge in fall camp

The Hawkeyes' wide receiver room has the talent to produce one more contributor on offense, but who that will be is the biggest looming question. There are a handful of names who have flashed but have either lacked consistency or experience or fought the injury bug.

Reece Vander Zee

Reece Vander Zee's first game with the Iowa Hawkeyes saw him haul in two touchdowns. He showed up in Iowa City with a bang, but unfortunately, that flame has dwindled a bit.

Vander Zee battled some injuries in 2025, and over his two years with Iowa, he has just 29 receptions for 395 yards and five scores, despite being a starter when healthy.

He has the size at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds to win contested catches against defensive backs when given the chance. If he can stay healthy this year, his growth could be massive for Iowa's passing attack.

Two Iowa kids make massive plays! Reece Vander Zee hauls in a 29 yard touchdown, and Kaden Wetjen returns a punt 50 yards to the house. Rock Rapids and Williamsburg stand up!

Iowa is rolling against the Gophers. pic.twitter.com/OFU2qZP7m5

— KCRG Sports (@KCRG_Sports) October 25, 2025

Evan James

Tony Diaz is getting the buzz from the transfer portal, but Evan James comes to Iowa with his own production.

Last year, James posted 65 receptions for 796 yards and seven scores, primarily playing from the slot, due to his 5-foot-10 frame that allows him to use his agility against slower defensive backs.

I like Evan James to get touches in this offense via quick screens, jet sweeps, and quick-hitting passes that can let him run after the catch. This is an element Iowa has lacked, which has the door open for Evan James.

Evan James turns his defender inside out and collects the 30-yard TD strike! pic.twitter.com/5IUNjgXAfC

— Furman Football (@PaladinFootball) September 13, 2025

Dayton Howard

Dayton Howard is a name to be aware of for the Hawkeyes in 2026. He has the potential to step up and become a contributor for this offense. At 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, he is Iowa's tallest wideout.

Howard has experience, with 12 receptions for 153 yards and two scores over the last two seasons. He could be Iowa's red -zone target with his frame if he can put things together this season.

GRONOWSKI SENDS IT! DAYTON HOWARD REELS IT IN! 🎣 @HawkeyeFootball pic.twitter.com/HmCLLNxOvP

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 20, 2025

Jarriett Biue

Jarriett Buie has seen limited action for the Hawkeyes. After a 2024 season that saw him bring in nine receptions for 94 yards, Buie did not see the field in 2025.

Is that a scheme mismatch? A lack of trust? Or is Buie ready to play a bigger part in 2026 after another year in the program?