He was a finalist for the Rimington Trophy, was an All-B1G selection and an All-American center last season, but Tyler Linderbaum had no reservations about a return to Iowa.

After last season, Linderbaum easily could’ve declared for the 2021 NFL Draft, deciding to forgo his final seasons with the Hawkeyes. He probably would’ve been selected at some point during the three-day event, too.

But Linderbaum had other plans. Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, the Iowa center said that he didn’t even think about declaring for this year’s NFL Draft. He wanted to play one more season with the Hawkeyes, and possibly two.

Linderbaum has played in 23 career games for the Hawkeyes and has started in 21 consecutive contests over the last two seasons. In 2019, his first year seeing significant action, he was an All-B1G Honorable Mention. Last year, he was one of three finalists for the Rimington Trophy, a second-team All-American and a first-team All-B1G.

Heading into the 2021 season, Linderbaum will serve as the experienced anchor on the front lines. He has a great opportunity to add more postseason accolades to his name, as well.