Riley Moss, Sam LaPorta, Jack Campbell among Big Ten’s top 22 returning players
Our friends, or not so friendly Big Ten comrades, over at Wolverines Wire reviewed and named the top 22 returning players for the 2022 Big Ten football season as we get ready to enter training camp.
They based their list off of Big Ten awards, stats, and production when compiling the rankings. Based on those criteria, the Iowa Hawkeyes have three of the top 22 returning players.
That trio includes cornerback Riley Moss, tight end Sam LaPorta, and linebacker Jack Campbell. These three rightfully belong on this list based on what they have done in their careers so far and what is in store for them this season.
Riley Moss, CB
Career stats: 111 tackles, 10 interceptions, three defensive touchdowns, and 15 pass deflections
Moss is the most distinguished member of Iowa’s secondary as he is coming off a 2021 season that saw him named the Big Ten defensive back of the year, an All-American, and rated the best cornerback in the Big Ten by Pro Football Focus. He is coming back for one final year and looks to expand on an already stellar career before his inevitable jump to the NFL next year.
Sam LaPorta, TE
Career stats: 95 receptions, 1,129 yards, and four touchdowns
LaPorta was Iowa’s leading receiver in multiple categories during the 2021 season. He likely could have left for the NFL and been in a competition for playing time or even a starting spot, but he chose to come back to Iowa for one more season. Already listed as the No. 2 tight end on ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr.’s big board and a member of Pro Football Focus’ 2023 NFL draft watch list, LaPorta will be expected to lead Iowa’s passing game in his final year.
Jack Campbell, LB
Career stats: 174 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, two sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries
Campbell is no surprise at all on this list. Honestly, he may not only be the best linebacker in the Big Ten, but he also has a case for the entire country if he puts up another season like 2021 saw. He was the best run-stopping linebacker in the Power Five last season and is the No. 2 inside linebacker draft prospect according to Mel Kiper Jr. Campbell is the leader of the Hawkeyes’ defense and will look to elevate his play as he has done year after year in Iowa City.
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Iowa Hawkeyes 2022 schedule breakdown: Ohio State
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