Iowa DB reportedly opts out of remainder of 2024 season to prepare for NFL Draft
Iowa defensive back Jermari Harris will not play again for the Hawkeyes this season, according to a report.
Per 247Sports’ David Eickholt, Harris is opting out of the rest of the 2024 campaign in order to prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Harris has 27 tackles, 3 interceptions and 7 pass deflections so far in 2024. In addition to that production, Harris also received excellent grades from Pro Football Focus so far in 2024. He’s earned an 88.4 coverage grade on the season, which ranks first amongst all Big Ten cornerbacks this season.
Harris’ departure from Iowa’s secondary is a huge loss for the Hawkeyes. It’s been a disappointing season overall for Iowa, but Harris has been one of the primary bright spots on defense.
If Harris does get drafted, it would mark the 4th consecutive draft where Iowa has sent a defensive back to the NFL. Cooper DeJean (2024), Riley Moss (2023) and Dane Belton (2022) were the previous Iowa defensive backs to be selected in the NFL Draft.
Iowa has not yet confirmed Harris’ decision.
Iowa is set to play at Maryland on Saturday in Week 13 as the Hawkeyes look to improve to 7-4 on the season.