NFF National Scholar-Athletes
Aaron Graves, DL – Iowa
4.03 GPA – Exercise Science
Head Coach: Kirk Ferentz | Athletics Director: Beth Goetz
Faculty Athletics Representative: Nicole Grosland and Liz Hollingworth
John H. McConnell Scholar-Athlete Award
An exceptional student-athlete with a tremendous work ethic, Aaron Graves has dominated the line of scrimmage for the Hawkeyes while excelling in the classroom. The Dayton, Iowa, native becomes Iowa's eighth NFF National Scholar-Athlete, joining his teammate Jack Campbell, the 2022 Campbell Trophy® recipient.
Graves graduated with the highest distinction in 2024, completing his bachelor's degree in just two years while maintaining a 4.03 GPA in exercise science. He is on track to finish his master's degree in sport and recreation management this December. A two-time CSC Academic All-District honoree, Graves earned Second Team Academic All-American honors in 2024, and he was a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar in 2023 while also receiving the Forest Evashevski Academic Achievement Award.
A three-year letterman and team captain, Graves earned Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honors in 2024, and he received the 2024 Team Hustle Award.
Anchoring the middle of the Hawkeye defensive line this season, Graves has recorded 25 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, 3 hurries, 2 sacks, and an interception (35-yard return) in seven starts in 2025. Iowa's defense ranks seventh nationally in yards per game (246.7) and eighth in scoring (13.0). During his career, he has compiled 110 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 4 pass breakups and 1 interception in 46 games and 20 starts.
Graves helped the Hawkeyes win the 2023 Big Ten West Division, finish with a No. 22 national ranking, and earn berths in three bowl games, including a victory in the 2022 Music City Bowl and appearances at the 2023 Citrus Bowl and 2024 Music City Bowl.
Graves has volunteered with Filter of Hope, Safe Haven Animal Shelter, Athletes in Action, Day of Caring, and CommUnity Crisis Services & Food Bank.
(All stats as of Oct. 22, 2025)
