Kelton Copeland Out as Iowa's Receivers Coach

Another Staff Opening as Hawkeyes Continue Search for Offensive Coordinator

Iowa's Arland Bruce IV (10) readies to field a punt while coach Kelton Copeland looks on during Kids Day practice on Aug. 13, 2022 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Rob Howe/HawkeyeNation.com)

In addition to searching for a new offensive coordinator, Iowa Football also is looking to fill an opening for a wide receiver coach. ESPN's Pete Thamel broke the news Friday evening that Kelton Copeland would not be returning to the Hawkeye staff. 

Interim athletic director Beth Goetz announced at the end of October that Brian Ferentz, son of head coach Kirk Ferentz, would be dismissed as the offensive coordinator following the 2023 season. Brian Ferentz also served as the program's quarterback coach. 

Copeland was announced as Iowa's receiver coach in February of '17. He produced mixed results in the position during his seven seasons. The group caught 76 passes for 754 yards and three touchdowns this fall. Only four wideouts caught passes. 

Iowa scored 15.4 points per game this season, the fewest in Power 5 football. Its 234.6 yards per contest were last among all FBS programs. 

Copeland left the same position at Northern Illinois to become the Hawkeye receiver coach. He also worked at South Dakota, Coffeyville Community College, Northwood University and Emporia State. 

A Miami native, Copeland played for Jerry Kill at Emporia State. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in recreation.