Iowa linebacker Jay Higgins is looking for a big final season after deciding not to enter the NFL Draft. The native of Indianapolis led the country with 171 tackles last season but was not named the winner of the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker.

Higgins wants to be even more of a leader next season and help bring along some of the younger linebackers.

One of the younger linebackers who shined during spring drills was junior Karson Sharar (shire). The Iowa Falls native appeared in all 14 games last season.

The Hawkeyes open next season at home on August 31st against Illinois State.