Iowa defensive end Jermari Harris has decided to use another year of eligibility and will return to Iowa for the 2024 season, he and the football program announced Wednesday afternoon. Harris, 23, is the fourth current Iowa player to use an extra year of eligibility because of the COVID-19 pandemic. After losing the 2022 season, Harris was rusty at the start of 2023 but has made strides to showcase his NFL potential. But entering the current draft is very risky. There’s a chance he could go undrafted and become vulnerable without much of a chance.

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Harris can learn from one of the top secondary coaches at any level in Phil Parker and put his potential to production. Harris has the perfect size and arm length to play corner in the NFL and if he continues to improve on his current trajectory, he will not only be drafted but have some cushion as at least a mid-round pick. round in 2025.

Harris is the second of five defensive backs sure to return in 2024, along with current sophomore safety Xavier Nwankpa. Harris’ return could prevent the Hawkeyes from attacking the gates at that position. Safeties Sebastian Castro and Quinn Schulte will soon decide whether to return or leave, and Harris’ decision could convince his fellow secondary running backs one more shot. Cooper DeJean, a third-year, is considered a possible first-round pick if he leaves early.