When it came to finding a new home out of the transfer portal, Tyler Brown did his homework. A track record of success on the former James Madison safety’s side of the ball was a must.

LSU, Florida State, Wisconsin and UCLA reportedly got involved with Brown once he hit the open market. They could not outdo with what he found in Iowa City.

“As I was going through the process, Iowa stuck out to me because of their history of having a dominant defense year after year,” Brown said.

Of course, the past doesn’t dictate the future. Brown believes the Hawkeyes are set up to remain one of the country’s top units.

“The meetings and growing a relationship with the people on the staff, they were honest and transparent with me throughout the whole process. I knew it was the place for me when I got to sit down and talk ball with the staff. They broke my game down and told me what I needed to do to help be the best player I can be, but also how they were gonna help me do it,” he said.

A Severn (MD) Archbishop Spalding graduate, Brown was an honorable mention All-Sun Belt Conference defensive back in 2025. The 5-foot-10, 195-pounder started all 14 games at free safety for a Dukes team that reached the College Football Playoff. He recorded 80 total tackles (40 solo), 5.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, one interception and six pass breakups.

The Hawkeyes must replace their starting safeties from this past season. They graduated Xavier Nwankpa, and Koen Entringer transferred.

“I know I will bring a competitive spirit (to Iowa). I know I will be a great teammate. I know I will be a great player who listens and respects everyone around me. But best of all, I will make the people around me better,” Brown said.

Brown is used to winning. That’s the objective at his new school.

“The team goal is to maximize this team’s potential. My individual goal is the be the best teammate I can be to the people around me,” he said.

The move to Iowa wasn’t about there being anything wrong at James Madison. It was an opportunity to play at college football’s highest level.

“My time and relationships built at JMU will be something I cherish and take with my for the rest of my life. Great people, great place and amazing football there. I’ve got nothing but love for Harrisonburg (VA) and the University of James Madison,” Brown said.

It’s also a chance at a Big Ten education.

“I plan to major in Sports and Recreational Management. God willing, I play in the NFL first then, with that degree, I would love to be a mentor and a coach for the younger generation under me as many have been for me,” he said.