Hunter Niklos pictures himself playing defense for colleges while watching them compete during campus visits. Finding the right match for his skill set is important.

The Class of 2026 Yorkville (IL) safety did that while at Iowa earlier this month. The Hawkeyes faced Top 10 Oregon at a sold out Kinnick Stadium.

“I think I would fit perfect into the defense,” Niklos said. “I don’t know his name, but No. 6 (Zach Lutmer) reminded me a lot of myself. I liked his versatility and his playing style. He played a bit of nickel, corner and safety, which is exactly what I do for my high school.”

The similarities didn’t end there.

“I’m also No. 6,” Niklos said with a chuckle.

Niklos enjoys an advantage over a lot of recruits with his father, J.R. Niklos, having played fullback at Western Illinois and for six seasons in the NFL. Hunter can lean on that knowledge and experience when searching for his college home.

At Iowa, Niklos saw attractive qualities.

“They had very nice physicalities, nice environment and beautiful game atmosphere. I loved the fans,” he said.

The Hawkeye culture impresses Niklos. He said the coaches like his speed and are continuing to evaluate him as they build their 2026 Class.

“I did not grow up as an Iowa fan, but all my best friends are, so I’ve always liked them,” he said.

According to Max Preps, in 10 games this season, Niklos has accumulated 37.0 tackles, a tackle for loss and a pass defended. He averaged 13.0 yards on a pair of punt returns and picked up 26 yards on a lone kick return. He reported running the 40-yard dash in 4.45 seconds and the short shuttle in 4.19.

Niklos (6-1, 185) visited the University of Indianapolis last weekend. He’s reported scholarship offers from Marshall and Western Kentucky.

“I’m still trying to find a true home. I’ve never cared about how big a school is or the NIL or any of that stuff. I want to be developed well because I don’t think I’m half the player I can be in the future. A coaching staff that trusts me and helps me reach that point is what I need,” he said.