Logan Jones motivated by intensity of teammates in Iowa’s offense
Iowa offensive lineman Logan Jones (65) jokes around with quarterback Spencer Petras (7) before snapping the ball during spring practice Saturday April 23, 2022 at Kinnick Stadium. (Lynn Harrington/stayaliveinpower5)
IOWA CITY, Ia. — The Council Bluffs native started all 13 games at center for the Hawkeyes last season, and takes accountability for some of the struggles on offense.
Logan Jones is a converted defensive end, who moved on the offensive side of the ball in the spring of 2022 because the big boys up front needed help. Jones thought he was a great addition, and did his best to anchor the unit, but never imagined Iowa would finish dead last in the Big Ten in total offense.
However, there’s a new vibe in the air this time around as the team approaches fall camp. That’s because the offense added Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All. The two played a big part in the Wolverines capturing a Big Ten Title in 2021.
Bruising running back Kaleb Johnson is ready to build off his promising freshman campaign. Not to mention Luke Lachey is carrying on the Tight End U legacy, and wideout Nico Ragaini is back on the roster for a sixth year. In Jones’ mind, that’s more than enough experience, production and leadership to be excited about the offense this fall.
Which is why he’s pushing his fellow offensive linemen to be the best they can be, and not a liability again. What drives the six-foot-three, 290-pounder is the potential the offense has with the new faces.
“I think Cade definitely has a chip on his shoulder, being injured towards the end of last year, and transferring,” Jones said. “He wants to prove something, the same as Erick, they’re great football players, and I’m excited to see them out on the field.”
Jones is enjoying the confidence that the championship-winning gunslinger and tight end brings to the table. It has made everyone elevate their game. Still, Jones understands the offense is only going to go as far as the offensive line takes it. There’s very little margin for error for the unit if the offense is planning on making strides.
Jones feels the offensive line is ready to get back to mauling defenders, and executing at the point of attack. With a physical runner like Johnson in the backfield, Jones is eager to open up gaping holes for him to plow through.
“I just think with the development of the offensive line, we’re going to be able to help him (Johnson) succeed more,” he said. “We have a great relationship with Kaleb, and we want to block for him, and I think this season he’s going to have a great year.”
As for Jones, he’s willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win. The former four-star prospect’s versatility may come into play down the stretch if depth becomes an issue up front again, and the Hawkeyes get thin. Jones has the ability to excel along the interior or out on the edge, so he gives the offense options.
Iowa tied for 105th nationally in sacks allowed last year, and Jones knows that can’t happen on his watch for a second-straight year. So expect a new and improved Hawkeye offense, that’s looking to raise some eyebrows across the conference this upcoming season.
