Family History with Hawkeyes Has Nolan Ziegler Interested in Iowa Football

Iowa came forward with a scholarship offer for Nolan Ziegler at the end of last month. The opportunity impacted the talented Michigan athlete.

“It was a big deal having an offer from there because of my family history and how successful they have been in their program,” he told HN.

His grandfather’s uncle and two cousins played for the Hawkeyes many years ago. Floyd McDowell played on the offensive line during the 1930s. Larry McDowell and Layne McDowell were on teams in the ’60s.

Ziegler (6-4, 205) plays all over the field for Grand Rapids (MI) Catholic Central High. Iowa and other college programs project him as a safety who could grow into a linebacker.

That makes the Hawkeyes an attractive option.

“There have been some great linebackers and DBs to go through Iowa,” the Class of ’22 prospect said.

Assistant Kelvin Bell is leading the Hawkeyes’ recruitment of Ziegler. He’s communicating with others there and building bonds.

“I like talking to the coaching staff,” Ziegler said.

Defensive coordinator and secondary coach Phil Parker would tutor Ziegler.

“I haven’t talk to coach Parker, but I know he’s a very successful coach, and I know I will be in good hands,’ Ziegler said.

Whether he stays at safety or moves up to linebacker in college, Ziegler doesn’t see it changing his approach.

“I’m a playmaking player that’s not afraid to hit and will finish with the game on the line,” he said.

Boston College, Cincinnati, Nebraska and several MAC schools also have reportedly offered Ziegler scholarships. He’s heard from Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa State and others.

“I’ll know when I’ve found the right school when my family and I get the feeling that it’s home,” he said.

Ziegler is hoping to commit before his senior season.

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The 247 networks ranks him as a three-star recruit, the No. 25 safety nationally in his class and the No. 12 player in Michigan for ’22 regardless of position.

As a sophomore, Ziegler totaled 78 tackles, including 10 in the state championship game. Catholic Central knocked off Detroit Country Day, 44-0, in the Division 4 finals at Detroit’s Ford Field to finish 13-1.

Here’s a look at his ’19 highlights: