Iowa star Cooper DeJean has been lost for the season after suffering a lower leg injury in practice. DeJean is one of the nation’s top defensive player and he also led the Big Ten in punt returns.

That’s Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz on Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz. He says recovery will take at least six to eight weeks.

DeJean’s loss is a blow to the defense and special team units that have carried Iowa to an 8-2 record. Ferentz says redshirt freshman Deshaun Lee will step in at corner.

Kick returner Kaden Wetjen will take over punt return duties.