’28 Dowling O-Linemen Check Out Iowa
Carter Barrett, Evan Mitchell Names to Know
West Des Moines Dowling Catholic reached the state semifinals last season with a young offensive line. With guys like freshmen standouts Carter Barrett, Evan Mitchell and the crew back in 2025, the Maroons expected to take another step towards a title this coming fall.
Colleges have taken notice of the group. Iowa played host to Barrett and Mitchell for a junior day earlier this month. The Hawkeyes offered Barrett a scholarship during visit.
“It’s an exciting and humbling feeling after seeing all the work you put in towards your dream becoming a reality,” he said.
Mitchell will continue working towards an Iowa offer. He’s thankful for its interest in him.
“I am honored that I’m being invited to participate in these visits. University of Iowa football is a respected and hard-earned program to be a part of,” he said.
Dowling’s 4,168 yards of offense were the sixth most in Class 5A last fall. Its 2,155 rushing yards ranked eighth among big schools.
Barrett (6-6, 275) turned heads with his play at left tackle as a ninth-grader. In addition to Iowa, he’s picked up offers from Iowa State, Missouri, Tennessee and Wisconsin since the season ended. A long list of programs have shown serious interest.
The Hawkeyes played host to Barrett for a game last season. He appreciated speaking more in-depth with head coach Kirk Ferentz and George Barnett, the offensive line coach, this time around.
“It was also unique to be able to talk to players and hear their experiences and opinions about the program,” he said.
Mitchell also appreciated learning about the life of Hawkeyes already on campus.
“What I enjoyed learning the most about the program was listening to current athletes’ perspectives on playing the game at this level and the behind-the-scenes work they have to put in as athletes and students,” he said.
A long way from a college decision, Iowa is well positioned with Barrett. The relationship has a solid foundation.
“One of the things that stands out about their program is their ability to develop offensive linemen as well as coach Barnett’s coaching style,” he said.
Mitchell (6-3, 235) also has visited Iowa State. He’s been invited to summer camps at the in-state schools along with Kansas State, Minnesota, Northwestern, Wisconsin and Oklahoma.
“I am humbled and grateful to my core,” he said. “I don’t take any of these opportunities before me for granted. I’m eager to keep working hard and earning these opportunities ahead to meet more with coaches and players at this level.”
