Voice of the Hawkeyes Board

Hendrix would be a huge get. He's gotta see the gaping hole at defensive end and think he can come in and play immediately. I'm assuming that's something the Iowa coaches are really trying to sell him on.

Todd, with all of the attention that Hendrix is getting from big time programs, including a recent offer from USC, does he still plan on visiting Iowa this month? From reading recent articles on Hendrix, Iowa has seemed to have fallen behind other programs.

One advantage Iowa has is his proximity to Iowa City, and he is very tight with his family. However, he said he is taking a vacation to California to see family and will visit USC and Cal while he is there. He said he is close with his family in California and more family members are moving there after his graduation. This development could negate one of the advantages that Iowa has. The other advantage Iowa has is its lack of depth at defensive end. With his abilities, I would be very surprised if he didn't play a big role right away at Iowa, and hopefully he will see the chance for immediate playing time.

I have to imagine that the lack of defensive ends is keeping the staff up at night. With no proven pass rushers on the team and only 4 offers out to uncommitted recruits, I have no idea what the staff will do to upgrade the position. Out of the 4 DE's offered, I think it is safe to say that Iowa isn't in the lead with any of them. Currently, they would seem to have no chance at Solomon Thomas and little chance with Hendrix. The best options among the offered recruits would appear to be Silvester Hayes and JaWhuan Bentley. Todd, what do you think Iowa's chances are with these two?

From your articles, it sounds like the only other defensive ends that Iowa may offer are Harrison Phillips, Andrew Stelter and Melvin Keihn, who has many offers. Todd, Do you know of anyone else that the Hawks are evaluating? I hope the staff has a plan because right now, the situation doesn't look good at all. I know it is early, and players will emerge during their senior season, but it is concerning.