Iowa cornerback Jermari Harris to stay for sixth year of eligibility

IOWA CITY — Iowa defensive back Jermari Harris will return for a sixth year of eligibility, he announced Wednesday via the team’s social media accounts.

Harris started at cornerback in 12 of 14 games this year after missing all of the 2022 season with an injury. He had one interception and allowed receptions on 62.3 percent of targets, according to Pro Football Focus.

The Chicago native’s eight pass breakups were tied for a team-high. He had 42 tackles, including one tackle for loss.

Harris was the recipient of the team’s Comeback Player of the Year Award in 2023.

Barring any unexpected departures, Iowa is expected to return at least five defensive starters from this year’s team. Linebacker Jay Higgins announced plans last week to use his extra COVID-19 year of eligibility.

Fellow defensive backs Cooper DeJean, Sebastian Castro and Quinn Schulte and linebacker Nick Jackson have not yet announce whether they plan to return in 2024.

Harris’ return could be especially significant if DeJean, a projected first-round pick, pursues the NFL Draft and therefore leaves a vacancy at the other cornerback spot. The only other cornerback with starting experience is Deshaun Lee, who started in six of Iowa’s 14 games this season.

On the other side of the ball, tight end Luke Lachey announced last week he plans to stay for his senior year instead of pursuing the NFL Draft. Offensive lineman Nick DeJong will use his extra COVID-19 year of eligibility as well.

Players with remaining college eligibility have until Jan. 15 to decide whether to pursue the NFL Draft.

Comments: john.steppe@thegazette.com