Legacy Recruit Mac Markway Discusses Hawkeye Offer

LeVar Woods helped a great deal in Iowa landing standout defensive end prospect A.J. Epenesa in the 2017 recruiting class. The Iowa assistant played for the Hawkeyes alongside his father, Epenesa Epenesa, during the ’90s.

Woods is attempting to corral a highly-sought after son of another teammate in the ’23 cycle. Like A.J. Epenesa, Mac Markway, offspring of former Iowa tight end Matt Markway, is being targeted by some of the nation’s top programs.

The Hawkeyes jumped into the mix Monday with a scholarship offer for the young Markway, a tight end like his father. They followed offers he’s received from Alabama, Florida, Kansas, Kansas State, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Missouri, Texas A&M and West Virginia.

Markway has visited Iowa a couple of times.

“My dad and I were very excited about the Iowa offer. I grew up being very familiar with Iowa Football. Their tight end tradition is strong,” he told HN.

Woods gives Iowa a chance against the blue bloods pursuing Markway (6-4, 250). And A.J. Epenesa’s success in the program after passing on schools like Alabama and Michigan serves as an example of the Hawkeyes’ development abilities.

Epenesa spent three seasons at Iowa before being chosen in the second round of April’s NFL Draft. He twice earned all-Big Ten honors.

“I have known coach Woods for a long time. He and my dad played together and are friends. He also has coached some great tight ends and linebackers,” Mac Markway said.

The St. Louis (MO) De Smet Jesuit High product just completed his freshman year. He caught five passes for 58 yards and two touchdowns, while proving his adeptness at blocking during his first season on varsity for a team that went unbeaten and won a state championship.

Markway visited Iowa in April of 2019 and came back for junior day in January.

“I plan on visiting again when things clear up (with the COVID-19 pandemic),” he said.

With three years of high school remaining, plenty of time remains for Markway in navigating the recruiting process. He will take his time in finding the best fit.

“I’m excited and grateful about every offer I have, and I plan on visiting all of them. I’m not sure when I will decide on a school,” he said.

Woods and Iowa’s history at tight end could keep the Hawkeyes in this race for his services. Having T.J. Hockenson and Noah Fant drafted in the first round last year, and George Kittle thriving in the NFL, should help.

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“They have a great tradition,” Markway said.

Rivals and 247 aren’t yet ranking members of the ’23 class. When they do, expect Markway to show up high on their lists.

Here’s a look at Markway’s freshman highlights: