By Hawk Fanatic

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz has confirmed multiple media reports saying that Iowa Football will be looking for a new running backs coach. The New York Giants have hired away its current one, Ladell Betts, for the same position.

The Athletic was the first to report the news.

Ferentz released a statement thanking Betts for his contributions as both an Iowa football player and assistant coach.

“It is no surprise that an opportunity like this came along,” Kirk Ferentz said. “The New York Giants are getting a tremendous coach and an outstanding person. We wish him well.”

Betts returned to his alma mater for the 2021 season after coaching high school football in Florida. He replaced Derrick Foster, who left for the Los Angeles Chargers and has since moved on to the Dallas Cowboys.

Thank you, @LadellBetts46!

Once a #Hawkeye, Always a Hawkeye. pic.twitter.com/8Mmfbf6IUw

— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) February 25, 2025

The Hawkeyes also will be replacing All-American Kaleb Johnson, who is expected to be one of the top running backs off of the board in April’s NFL Draft. They’re expected to have back Kamari Moulton and Jaziun Patterson, a duo that has flashed upside in part-time duty.

Betts recruited Johnson, helping flip him from his verbal commitment to Cal. The assistant coach then developed the Ohio product into one of the nation’s best. Betts also did well in keeping the running back room from experience heavy attrition despite it being filled the last few years.

Fort Lauderdale’s Pine Crest School employed Betts as its head coach before he came back to UI. The Blue Springs, MO native served as an assistant there and at two other high schools since 2013.

Washington selected Betts in the second round of the ’02 draft. He spent nine seasons in the league,
racking up 7,057 all-purpose yards with 18 touchdowns.

Betts is the only running back in Hawkeye history to lead the team in rushing four straight years. He ranks second in career rushing yards (3,686), fourth in all-purpose yards (4,397) and 19th in career scoring (162).

The Giants will present Betts with several familiar faces. The sons of Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz, James and Steven Ferentz, are on the coaching staff. Tyrone Tracy Jr. is the team’s top running back and someone who played receiver at Iowa in ’21, Bett’s first season on that staff.

The Hawkeyes will kick off spring practice next month. The session is expected to run into the middle of April.