Jay Higgins continues to capture football fans' attention. The former Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker has officially signed with the Baltimore Ravens, taking his next step into the NFL. Let’s explore Higgins’ path, his collegiate highlights, and what his future might hold as a pro.

Rising Through the Ranks at Iowa

Jay Higgins arrived at Iowa with modest fanfare, having received only one Power Five offer out of high school. He spent much of his early college career in the shadow of Jack Campbell, another Iowa linebacker who found NFL success. Rather than transfer, Higgins bought into the Hawkeye program’s culture of development. He waited for his moment and made the most of it when the opportunity finally arrived.

By his senior year, Higgins had become a tackling machine. In 2023, he tied an Iowa program record with 171 total tackles, starting every game and leading the Hawkeyes’ tenacious defense to the Big Ten Championship game. His leadership and consistency on the field set him apart, earning Higgins national recognition.

College Accolades and Playing Style

During his five seasons at Iowa, Jay Higgins amassed 335 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and five interceptions. He was twice named First-team All-Big Ten and became the 2024 Big Ten Linebacker of the Year. Higgins also earned unanimous All-American honors, a testament to his impact and performance.

Higgins’ game is built on instincts, effort, and football intelligence. While scouts noted he isn’t the biggest or fastest linebacker, he makes plays with quick reactions and sharp reads. His ability to thrive in zone coverage and eliminate extra yards after catches impressed analysts. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein praised his determination and tackling prowess but acknowledged some athletic limitations, particularly in man coverage situations. You can read a detailed breakdown of his journey and skillset in this Hawk Central article.

Joining the Baltimore Ravens as an Undrafted Free Agent

Despite a stellar college career, Jay Higgins went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the Baltimore Ravens quickly moved to sign him as an undrafted free agent (learn more here). This opportunity gives Higgins the chance to prove himself at the highest level of the sport.

The Ravens value smart, physical defenders—two qualities Higgins embodies. With determination and a strong work ethic, he will look to carve out a role on special teams or as a depth linebacker. Sometimes, undrafted rookies become NFL stalwarts through grit and perseverance, and Higgins has the tools to be one of those stories.

What’s Next: Expectations for His NFL Career

The transition from college to the NFL is a significant challenge. Higgins faces an uphill battle as an undrafted player, but his time at Iowa has shown he’s not intimidated by adversity. The Ravens’ coaching staff is known for developing defensive talent, offering him a prime environment to learn and compete.

Football experts will watch Jay Higgins closely during training camp and preseason. His tackling skills and football IQ may help him stand out among fellow rookies. For a detailed review of the 2025 NFL Draft and the prospects around Higgins, check out the USA TODAY NFL draft tracker.

Summary

Jay Higgins’ journey from overlooked high school recruit to Iowa legend and now a Baltimore Ravens linebacker is inspiring. His story highlights the importance of patience, work ethic, and embracing challenges. With training camp ahead, Higgins has the chance to turn determination into an NFL career—just as he did at Iowa. Keep an eye on Higgins as he aims to make an impact in Baltimore and continue his legacy on the football field.