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In our latest installment, we take a look at two walk-ons at very different parts of their careers.
Dalles Jacobus - RS Senior
Palo, IA (Cedar Rapids Kennedy)
6’1”, 275 lbs
2020 projection: Reserve defensive lineman
Jacobus joined the Hawkeyes as many in-state players do, as a walk-on. The lifelong Hawkeye fan faced a tough decision when committing, as he had to turn down track scholarships (including from Iowa) for the opportunity to play football in the black and gold.
After redshirting in 2016, he didn’t receive any playing time until the 2019 season, largely on special teams. His role figures to be much of the same for 2020, as 247 didn’t include him in their most recent depth chart projection along the defensive line.
Off the field, Jacobus wrote a song about The Wave, singing it in front of some friends last summer:
Our family friend Dalles Mitchell Jacobus wrote and performed this song at the Beyer Bash last night. Listen closely to the words about Hawkeye Football and the Iowa Children’s Hospital. Amazing Would love to hear this playing at your games this season, Dalles!
Posted by Kim Beyer Olson on Sunday, July 21, 2019
Jeremy Chaplin - Freshman
Waverly, IA (Waverly-Shell Rock)
6’2”, 250 lbs
2020 projection: Redshirt offensive lineman
Chaplin comes to Iowa after being an all-state offensive lineman in 2019.
He shows solid quickness and ability in space for an offensive lineman as well as a nose for the ball on defense. His mean streak is quickly apparent on the video above, where he rag dolls a defender as the lead blocker on a screen.
There is still some question as to whether he projects along the offensive or defensive line of scrimmage. First up is putting on some weight and acclimating himself to the program. Iowa has shown a willingness to invest in walk-ons along the line of scrimmage so he may see himself emerge in 2-3 years as a contributor.