Cael Winter
Senior offensive lineman on Iowa's 2026 roster. No game stats recorded yet.
6′3″ · 294 lb · Waukee, IA · Northwest
The story
4 offensive lineman on Iowa's roster. No game stats recorded yet.
The full story, with sourcesBuzz vs Tape
Rivals warmer than fans
The rival fanbase is unexpectedly warm on him relative to his own.
Cael Winter is a great story. Injured in high school, never gave up, persevered, four years into the Hawkeye program he's finally getting his shot. Easy to get behind this kid and root for him.
Also worth knowing:
Cael Winter
Limited signal — not enough coverage for a story yet.
Splits & context
Supporting cast · Scheme
Staff and system around the player
Head Coach
Kirk Ferentz
Scheme reads (pass share, tempo, sack rate) need at least 3 team games — 2 games in so far.
Awards
Cael Winter plays offensive line for Iowa.
Offensive line play doesn't show up in a box score. Here's what actually tells you whether he's good.
Iowa has produced 8 All-Conference offensive linemen and 3 All-Americans. 11 have gone on to the NFL Draft since 2015. Kade Pieper was one of them, an All-American.
How he plays
2026 Outlook
Iowa
2026 Depth chart
Projected starter
Offensive line · Iowa
Returning around him
- 34% of 2024 offensive production back (Moderate turnover)
- 7 Iowa players drafted to NFL
- Transfer portal: +7 net (15 in / 8 out)
2026 Award watch
No preseason watch lists yet (most drop June 15 – July 15)
Iowa · Last season: 9-4 · Talent rank #44 · 2026 recruiting class #26