David Folorunsho has seen his recruitment pick up significantly this month. The Chicago Saint Patrick junior defensive lineman reported new scholarship offers from North Carolina, Vanderbilt, Michigan State, Kansas State, Iowa, Kentucky, Penn State and Wisconsin since the calendar flipped to 2026.

It figures to be quite a tussle for Folorunsho’s commitment. Indiana, Miami (FL), Tennessee, Nebraska, Missouri, Minnesota, Purdue, Kansas, Iowa State and Cincinnati are among his other reported offers.

The Hawkeyes entered the competition when Folorunsho posted on Jan. 19 that they had offered. Defensive line coach Kelvin Bell delivered the good news.

“Coach Bell said he liked my aggressive playing style and motor,” the Class of 2027 prospect said. “He told me he was coming for a visit at my school. We had a great conversation, and he then later offered me.”

It wasn’t an introduction to Iowa for Folorunsho. He was familiar with how the Hawkeyes operate.

“I love how physical and disciplined they are in the trenches. They play smash-mouth football, and I love everything about it,” he said.

Folorunsho plans on building relationships in finding the program and university best for him. It appears the Hawkeyes are off to a good start.

“Iowa is a huge one on my list. Coach Bell is one of the best at developing D-Linemen, so it’s definitely a place I’m very interested in,” he said.

Academics will weigh heavily into his ultimate decision. He’s interested in learning about what Iowa has to offer.

“I want to look more into their Business courses and the overall academic structure. I plan on making it out for a spring practice,” he said.

Prep Redzone ranks ($) Folorunsho as the No. 16 overall player in Illinois’ junior class. He’s seen as the scouting service’s third-rated defensive lineman in the state for that recruiting cycle.

Folorunsho is taking his time with his search. He does have a timeline in mind, however.

“I want to commit before summer or early summer. I want to go to a place that can develop me to be the best player I can be and a place where I can build lifetime relationships,” he said.