University of Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz has been suspended for the Hawkeyes' season opener for recruiting violations from the 2022 season.
University officials say Ferentz, and assistant Jon Budmayr, violated Level II recruiting violation by contacting a player prior to their officially entering the transfer portal. While officials did not confirm which player Ferentz contacted, some sources reported by ESPN say it was Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara who transferred from the University of Michigan to Iowa.
In a statement, Ferentz said, “I frequently tell our players to abide by the rules, and in this instance, I did not. In 26 years as a head coach at Iowa — and more than four decades as a coach — this is my first potential Level II NCAA infraction. I made a mistake and would like to apologize to our players, University leadership, and our Hawkeye football fans. I know Coach Budmayr echoes those sentiments.”
Along with the one-game suspension, Ferentz also agreed to a loss of one week of off-campus recruiting time.
Seth Wallace, co-defensive coordinator, will serve as the interim head coach for Iowa’s season opener against Illinois State. Ferentz and assistant Budmayr are allowed to return to coaching for the September 7 game against Iowa State.
Beth Goetz, University of Iowa athletic director, added to Ferentz’s comments saying, “Coach Ferentz and I made the decision to self-impose the penalties, allowing the program to move forward without distraction. I appreciate the accountability demonstrated and we will continue to fully cooperate with the NCAA through this process. I have confidence in Coach Ferentz and his leadership, and we look forward to turning our focus to the opening game and exciting season that lies ahead.”
McNamara, the player who coach Ferentz is suspected of contacting, started five games for the Hawkeyes last season. Ultimately, McNamara suffered from a season-ending knee injury. It is unclear what role he will take in the team this season.
