By Hawkeyesports.com

IOWA CITY, Iowa – – University of Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz announced Tuesday that Brandon Snyder is leaving the program to pursue an opportunity to receive more time on the field.

“Brandon is a fifth-year senior who has earned his undergraduate degree and wants to see as much playing time as possible,” said Ferentz. “We are allowing him to be released, which means he can play for another team immediately.”

Snyder contributed significantly to the team as a free safety, but spent most of the past two years rehabilitating from two ACL injuries.  In his first game back in 2017, Snyder had an 89-yard interception return for a touchdown against Illinois. It was Snyder’s first career touchdown and tied as the sixth-longest return in Iowa football history. Unfortunately, Snyder reinjured his left knee in that contest and was sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Now healthy, Snyder faces increased competition for his position and an uncertain path to the field.

“We appreciate Brandon’s goal to play his full senior year,” said Ferentz. “We wish him the very best and thank him for his grit on the field.”

Snyder was a walk-on from West Lyon High School in Larchwood, Iowa. He earned Academic All-Big Ten recognition for three consecutive years and as a junior was elected to the Hawkeye Leadership Council.

# # #Statement on Alcohol-Related Arrests

Kirk Ferentz, Head Football Coach 

"Consistent with our team policy, Tristan Wirfs will serve a one-game suspension for his arrest for driving under the influence. 

It is always disappointing when student-athletes make decisions that are against the law and/or inconsistent with the University of Iowa’s code of conduct or team policies. 

Within one week, two of our players were arrested on alcohol-related charges.  As a veteran football coach and parent, I understand firsthand the personal pain and public humiliation that comes with making such decisions.  While these players are college students first, they are held to a much higher standard because of the privilege and responsibility that comes with being a member of the Iowa football program.

Any player in violation of team rules or the university code of conduct is subjected to a variety of penalties. My philosophy and practice is consistent, and that is to hold players accountable – – no matter their position on the depth chart. However, I hold senior members of the team to a higher standard because they know and understand the expectations.

These situations can be defining moments for all students.  It is my responsibility to hold our players accountable and help them learn and succeed.  My goal is to develop a winning culture that translates into championship seasons and players who are successful in life.