Eichholt: Sebastian Castro
I hate to agree with Sean, but it's got to be Castro. The Illinois native was in the shadows for years, but he was really good last season. He'll be one of the front-runners for Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year. Last year's game against Wisconsin was one of the most impressive performances I've seen from a defenseman. Castro's impact was everywhere. From the stick on 4th down to the interception, he was arguably the best football player on the field. The Hawkeye defense is loaded with ridiculous talent, but Castro is as good a candidate as anyone.
Castro led the team in 2023 with eight pass breakups and three interceptions. Those totals were fourth and ninth in the Big Ten, respectively. He finished the season with 67 tackles (47 solo, 20 assisted), including eight tackles for loss. I expect those numbers to be even better this season.
Jay Higgins was a close second on my list, but I expect Castro to be one of the most versatile defenders of the Ferentz era. He can cover tight ends and outside receivers, rush the quarterback and deliver some of the hardest hits on the field.
