A productive discussion turned into a welcomed opportunity for Cartae Ligon while meeting with Iowa running backs coach Omar Young last month.

“We were having a good conversation when he asked if I wanted an offer from Iowa,” the Class of 2028 prospect from Ohio said. “Of course I told him yes. Then he said, ‘now you got one.’”

Ligon is looking for a system that relies on his position. He sees that with the Hawkeyes.

“I like how they run the ball a lot and how good their O-Line play is. I also really like the stability of the coaches in the program,” he said.

The scholarship offer represents the next step in building a relationship with Iowa. Getting to campus is another critical component.

“I would like to learn more about their coaches and their football program much more in depth. I’m not sure if I’ll be visiting this spring or summer. I need to get out there, though, to check it out,” he said.

The competition for Ligon’s commitment already is stiff at the midway point of his prep career. The Chillicothe (OH) High standout claims 18 offers. Michigan, Indiana, Oklahoma, Penn State and Miami (FL) are among them.

The Hawkeyes stand in a strong position at this stage of the process.

“They are in the mix,” he said.

Ligon (6-1, 185) visited West Virginia, NC State and Toledo for games last season. Those schools have offered.

With plenty of time on his side, the young running back can be deliberate with his recruiting process.

“My decision timeline will be during the spring or summer of next year,” he said.

Academics also will play an important role in Ligon’s final choice.

“I’m looking into business, but I’m not sure exactly what part of business yet,” he said.

Ligon rushed for 2,262 yards (8.3 YPC) and 27 touchdowns as a sophomore in 2025. He caught 29 balls for 297 yards and two scores, and averaged 24.0 yards on five kick returns.