FCS star QB Mark Gronowski transferring to Iowa

Former South Dakota State star quarterback Mark Gronowski is going from the FCS to the Big Ten after committing to Iowa on Tuesday afternoon.

Gronowski was the FCS Player of the Year in 2023 and won two national titles with the Jackrabbits. He had a 49-6 record as a starter.

Gronowski announced his decision on social media, writing, "COMMITTED!! #GoHawkeyes." The school announced he was "Signed. Sealed. Delivered" a short time later.

COMMITTED!! #GoHawkeyes #LFG pic.twitter.com/HJdHHKPHkN

— Mark Gronowski (@mgronowski11) January 7, 2025

Speaking to ESPN, Gronowski said he felt comfortable while visiting the school last week.

"The culture at Iowa reminds me a lot of the classic Midwest culture I grew up in," Gronowski said. "It's a family atmosphere, and all the coaches are welcoming. It's a similar situation to where I've been. It's a big part of why I ended up going there."

Iowa badly needed an upgrade at quarterback after the transfer of Cade McNamara and the passing struggles of run-heavy signal-caller Brendan Sullivan.

Gronowski passed for 2,719 yards and 23 touchdowns against seven interceptions this season. Overall, he passed for 10,309 yards, 93 touchdowns and 20 interceptions and rushed for 1,767 yards and 37 scores.

When he entered the transfer portal late last month, Gronowski said he was going to consider entering the NFL draft. He previously accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.

"My goal throughout the process of transferring was getting in a situation to become the best player and be the best potential prospect for the NFL," Gronowski said.

--Field Level Media