Reilly Newman has approached his recruiting process deliberately. For the last year, he’s taken his time getting to know colleges and coaches.

It’s ongoing for the Class of 2027 Ohio lineman. This spring and summer will be important. He’ll visit campuses and gather crucial information.

Newman (6-6, 285) made his first trip to Wisconsin this past Saturday. The West Chester (OH) Lakota West junior scheduled a spring stop at Iowa for this coming Tuesday. He’s already locked in official visits with the Badgers (May 28-31) and the Hawkeyes (June 5-7).

“I want to learn more about their plan for me, and how they think I can fit into the program, as well as getting to meet the rest of their coaches and seeing the facilities,” he said of his Iowa visits.

The Hawkeyes have stood out among a scholarship offer list that reportedly includes Michigan, Indiana, Oregon, Northwestern, Nebraska, Minnesota, Louisville, Vanderbilt, Stanford, Purdue, Kentucky and others.

“I really like their history of getting O-Linemen to the next level and the coaching staff,” Newman said.

He’s appreciated the positive feedback from the Hawkeyes.

“They said that my athleticism was the biggest thing that they mentioned, but also my attitude when playing,” he said.

Versatility is a key asset, too. Iowa projects him as an offensive lineman. Wisconsin and others see him on the other side of the trench.

This past fall, Newman earned first-team all-district and all-conference laurels. He produced more than 50 total tackles and 10 stops for loss, adding two sacks, a pair of pass breakups, a couple of fumble recoveries and three blocked kicks.

While football will be a focus during his upcoming campus visits, a lot of attention will be given to academics.

“I want to major in something business related, probably finance,” Newman said.

Prep Redzone ranks ($) Newman as the No. 31 player overall in Ohio’s talent-rich 2027 Class. He is the third-rated defensive lineman.