Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says Adrian Clayborn could be one of the dominant defensive linemen in the country next season. As a junior, Clayborn led the Hawks with 20 tacklles behind the line, including 11 and a half sacks in a season that was capped off by a victory over Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl.
Ferentz says Clayborn is one of the better players they have had and he has improved each year. He says Clayborn was showcased in the bowl game, but says the things he does in practice are important too as he has a great attitude.
Ferentz says Clayborn’s role has expanded beyond the playing field, and he says it has been fun to watch him grow as a leader. He says Clayborn will be the guy to step into more of a leadership role in the coming season to replace graduating seniors.
Clayborn could have passed up his senior season to enter the NFL draft but decided to return for his final season.
Ferentz says he got feedback that Clayborn would have been a first round pick last year, and if he keeps progressing, he will move up even higher.
Iowa concludes spring drills on April 17th.