Commitment Preview: Will Hawthorne to Announce College Choice on Thursday
Class of 2025 linebacker Will Hawthorne is set to reveal his college commitment on August 8, a decision that could potentially secure Iowa State head football coach Matt Campbell and linebackers coach Colby Kratch a top in-state talent.
In June, Hawthorne made two official visits: first to Iowa State from June 14-16, followed by a visit to Nebraska a week later to meet with coach Matt Rhule.
Ranked as a three-star prospect by 247Sports, Hawthorne is listed as the No. 71 linebacker in the nation and the No. 5 player in Iowa. In the 247Sports Composite rankings, he is among the top 1,000 players nationally and within the top 100 linebackers. Additionally, he is recognized as a top 10 player in Iowa. Hawthorne’s decision comes down to Iowa State and Nebraska, but the 6-foot-2, 220-pound linebacker from Gilbert, Iowa, has received Power Conference scholarship offers from Iowa State, Nebraska, Kansas, and Kansas State, along with opportunities from several Ivy League schools. Notably, Iowa State was his first Power Conference offer.
During his junior year at Gilbert High School, Hawthorne recorded 63 tackles, including 46 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles. He also contributed on offense as a running back, amassing 774 yards and seven touchdowns, with 12 receptions for 320 yards and four touchdowns. His defensive performance earned him district MVP honors and an All-State selection.
A versatile athlete, Hawthorne also runs track, posting a 100-meter dash time of 10.97 seconds.
“It’s been a really exciting journey,” Hawthorne said. “Over the last two years, I felt underrated, watching others get the attention and offers I believed I deserved. But when the offers started coming in, starting with my first in late January, it felt really rewarding.”
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