'This is my tribe': Jay Norvell speaks about Iowa football return

After nearly 40 years away from the program, Jay Norvell has returned to his alma mater.

Norvell played at Iowa from 1982-85 and then spent a few years as a graduate assistant with the Hawkeyes before starting his coaching journey at Northern Iowa. He's spent years as a positional and head coach around the country, honing his craft and earning plenty of respect along the way. Now, he's made his way back home to join Kirk Ferentz's staff.

Norvell will serve as the running backs coach for the Hawkeyes in 2026, working with one of the strongest position groups on the roster. On Friday, he spoke to the media about what it means to return to Iowa and coach at his alma mater.

"I had chances to be a coordinator, I had a chance to be a head coach again. It just wasn't the right situation for me, it wasn't the right people for me. This is my tribe," Norvell said on Friday.

Norvell also spoke about his relationship with Ferentz and how far back the two go.

"Coach Ferentz came to Iowa the same year I did, in 1981. He was our offensive line coach. The transformation of those years and this university are very special to me. I'm very grateful to be back," Norvell said.

It's apparent from all the early conversations with Norvell how much love and appreciation he has for the University of Iowa. He's going to give it his all this season to help the Hawkeyes compete in a tough Big Ten conference.

With Kamari Moulton, Xavier Williams, Nathan McNeil, and LJ Phillips Jr. all under the guidance of Norvell, there's no reason to believe that group won't have a big 2026 season. The program is in a better spot with Norvell in the fold.

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