If you take a look around at NFL mock drafts for 2020, you'll see two Iowa Hawkeyes on most of those lists. A.J. Epenesa and Tristan Wirfs are first-round picks in most of those mock drafts. Both are preparing for the next step in their football careers. The NFL.

Both Epenesa and Wirfs confirmed that they have submitted their names to the NFL College Advisory Committee, and are interested in being evaluated for the NFL Draft in the spring. The deadline for underclassmen to enter the draft is January 24th. Both Epenesa and Wirfs were named All-Big Ten first-team selections last week.

Of course, fans would love to see both players stay and finish their Iowa football careers. But turning down millions to come back and risk injury and play another season of college football is something many avoid. Iowa took quite a hit last year with early entries into the NFL Draft. Four Hawkeyes left early including tight ends Noah Fant and T.J. Hockenson, along with defensive players Anthony Nelson and Amani Hooker.

Whether or not they leave early for the NFL both Epenesa and Wirfs have said that they are in for Iowa's bowl game. Iowa takes on USC in the Holiday Bowl on December 27th.

 

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