Former Iowa Hawkeyes making noise in the XFL
The XFL is underway and two weeks into their season. The league is serving as a bit of a proving ground for players looking to make a splash and latch onto an NFL team heading into the 2023 season. Many of these players have spent time in the NFL and are using this opportunity to make their way back.
Dargan Southard of the Des Moines Register rounded up the players that are former Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones that are playing in the league. The Hawkeyes have three former members playing right now.
The XFL is heading into Week 3 of a 10-week season followed by a playoff including the four best teams at the end of the regular season. The season runs through May 13 when the championship occurs. There are eight teams split into two divisions.
The XFL North consists of the D.C. Defenders, St. Louis Battlehawks, Seattle Sea Dragons, and Vegas Vipers. The XFL South is made up of the Houston Roughnecks, Arlington Renegades, San Antonio Brahmas, and Orlando Guardians.
Here is an update on the trio of former Iowa Hawkeyes currently playing in the XFL.
Jack Koerner, DB, San Antonio Brahmas
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Former safety Jack Koerner has found a home with the San Antonio Brahmas and is making considerable noise on defense.
After going from walk-on to secondary fixture over three starting seasons at Iowa, Koerner has made an early impact for the Brahmas. In two games, the former Dowling Catholic product has six total tackles — four solo, two assisted — and two TFLs. – Southard, Des Moines Register
Koerner was with Iowa from 2017-22 and excelled in the secondary. During his career he had 216 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 16 pass deflections, and six interceptions.
Jack Heflin, DL, Houston Roughnecks
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Jack Heflin is a member of the Houston Roughnecks and has contributed considerably for them already early in the season.
After bouncing around in the Packers and Giants organizations following a productive 2020 season at Iowa, Heflin has already caused disruption along the Houston defensive line. In two games, Heflin has three tackles, one tackle for loss and a fumble recovery. – Southard, Des Moines Register
Heflin appeared in eight games with Iowa in the 2020 season and produced very solidly. He had 21 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and a sack.
Shaun Beyer, TE, Arlington Renegades
Syndication: DesMoines
Shaun Beyer is continuing Iowa’s trend of talented tight end play. He is a member of the Arlington Renegades who is coached by Bob Stoops, a former coach on the Iowa staff. The Hawkeye connection is strong on this roster.
Beyer appeared in games with the Hawkeyes from 2018-2021. He reeled in 18 receptions for 275 yards and a touchdown.
XFL Leaders
Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Passing Leaders:
Ben DiNucci, SEA: 478 yards, three touchdowns
Brandon Silvers, HOU: 445 yards, four touchdowns
A.J. McCarron, STL: 374 yards, three touchdowns
Rushing Leaders:
Kalen Ballage, SAN: 107 yards
Abram Smith, DC: 99 yards, one touchdown
Ryquell Armstead, DC: 88 yards, one touchdown
Receiving Leaders:
Jahcour Pearson, SEA: 173 yards, one touchdown
Jontre Kirklin, HOU: 127 yards, one touchdown
Sal Cannella, ARL: 108 yards
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