University of Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz confirmed Tuesday that senior running back Kamari Moulton is out for the rest of the 2026 season after sustaining an upper‑body injury during the loss to Minnesota. Moulton, the Big Ten’s second‑leading rusher, left the game in the second quarter and did not return.
“Unfortunately, he’s going to be done,” Ferentz said. “We’ll look forward to getting him back here, but he’s got some rehab to go through.” Moulton had been averaging 90.2 rushing yards per game and had scored four touchdowns this season. He posted a career‑high 208 yards and two touchdowns in the Hawkeyes’ 41‑24 victory at Washington on Oct. 9.
Backup running back steps up
With Moulton sidelined, junior running back Xavier Williams will take over the backfield when Iowa hosts No. 25 Wisconsin on Saturday. Williams has seen limited action this year but will now have a larger role in the offense.
Hank Brown returns to starting quarterback role
In the same press conference, Ferentz announced that senior quarterback Hank Brown will resume the starting position. Brown began the season as the starter, guiding the Hawkeyes to a 4‑0 start before a shoulder injury forced him out in the fifth game against Ohio State.
Brown was cleared as fully healthy last week, and although backup Jeremy Hecklinski started against Minnesota, Brown entered the game in the fourth quarter, completing a pass for 136 yards and the team’s only touchdown, which helped Iowa tie the game before a late‑game overtime loss, 13‑10.
“He’s fully recovered and ready to lead the offense,” Ferentz added. “We trust his experience and poise to get us back on track.”
What the injuries mean for Iowa’s season
The loss of Moulton removes a key component of Iowa’s ground attack, forcing the coaching staff to rely more heavily on the passing game and the contributions of Williams. Brown’s return, however, restores stability at quarterback and should help balance the offense.
Both players are expected to undergo rehabilitation and conditioning programs aimed at returning them to full strength for the next season.
Upcoming schedule
Iowa’s next matchup against Wisconsin will be a critical test of the team’s depth and resilience. The Hawkeyes will look to bounce back from the recent overtime defeat and re‑establish their position in the Big Ten standings.
Fans can follow live updates and game coverage through the university’s official athletics website and local sports broadcasters.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
