Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa Hawkeyes: 2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Jay Higgins
Position: Middle Linebacker
College: Iowa
Height: 6-2
Weight: 232
High School: Brebeuf Jesuit Prep

2024 Stats (Regular Season): 118 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 4 interceptions, 9 passes defended

Career Stats (Entering Bowl Game): 335 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 5 interceptions, 14 passes defended

PFF Metrics: Defense Grade: 90.9, Run Defense: 73.9, Tackling: 77.1, Coverage: 93.9, Missed Tackle Rate: 10%, Completion Percentage Allowed: 74%, Special Teams Snaps: 527

Background

Jay Higgins emerged from Brebeuf Jesuit Prep in Indianapolis as a highly productive high school player, amassing 471 career tackles. Despite his standout numbers, he was lightly recruited, ranking as the 63rd-best linebacker in his class. Iowa secured his commitment over schools like Tulane and Ball State.

Higgins initially made his mark on special teams during his first two seasons at Iowa. However, in 2023, he broke out as a defensive force, leading the Big Ten and finishing third nationally with 171 tackles, earning All-Big Ten honors.

In 2024, Higgins solidified his status as one of college football’s top linebackers. He earned All-American recognition, tallying 118 tackles and four interceptions during the regular season. He aims to close his college career with a strong performance against Missouri in the TransPerfect Music City Bowl on December 30.

Strengths

1. Exceptional Productivity:
Higgins has been one of the most productive linebackers in college football over the past two seasons, recording 289 tackles. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and tackle with consistency has anchored Iowa’s defense, making it one of the best in the nation.

2. Zone Coverage Excellence:
Higgins thrives in zone coverage, earning a nation-leading 93.9 PFF coverage grade in 2024 and a 90.8 grade in 2023 which lead Power Five linebackers. His elite eye discipline and understanding of defensive schemes enable him to excel, as evidenced by his four interceptions this season.

3. Leadership and Football IQ:
A two-time captain, Higgins commands respect as the leader of Iowa’s defense. His physical playing style and ability to make defensive calls reflect his high football IQ. His leadership sets the tone for the Hawkeyes’ defensive success.

Weaknesses

1. Athletic Limitations:
While Higgins possesses elite instincts, he lacks the fluid athleticism required to excel in man-to-man coverage. His limited lateral quickness and stiff hips may hinder his ability to adjust against agile NFL players.

2. Speed Concerns:
In addition to his limited agility, Higgins' lack of elite speed is a concern. He struggles to make sideline-to-sideline plays against the run, which could limit his range in the NFL. This deficiency may also pose challenges when matching up against faster running backs in coverage at the next level.

2025 NFL Draft Projection

Higgins currently holds a fifth-round draft grade on NFL Draft Notebook’s board, primarily due to his lack of elite physical traits. However, his instincts, leadership, and consistent production suggest he can develop into a quality linebacker at the professional level. A fitting NFL comparison is former Iowa standout Josey Jewell, who has become a reliable contributor and is on pace for his third consecutive 100-tackle season. Teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Dallas Cowboys would be ideal fits, as both could benefit from his intelligence, zone coverage skills, and ability to contribute on special teams.