“He was number one!” -SpongeBob Squarepants

The top prospect in the state’s 2027 class, Will Slagle Will Slagle 6'4" | 305 lbs | OL Grinnell | 2027 State IA is one of the more heavily-coveted offensive line recruits in the Midwest.

Previously committed to Iowa State and Matt Campbell, the Grinnell product has since re-opened his recruitment and received offers from the new staff at ISU and Penn State, along with Miami (FL) and the new OL coach at Nebraska. Iowa remains in the mix, and Slagle, who projects to guard at the next level, would be an excellent fit at any of the aforementioned programs as a classic, homegrown farm boy that’s a mauler on the gridiron with a really strong base, great work ethic and a thick upper body. With a frame that looks like he could step on the field and be a starting OL at the FCS and potentially Group of 5 level, Slagle will need some development as a P4 OL, but has the makings of a multi-year starter.

With the top prospect in Iowa’s 2027 class reclassifying, Slagle likely will move to the top spot when the update is released in the next week or so. The Iowa State pledge certainly is deserving as an offensive lineman presently producing at a high level but nowhere near what he can become as a player. Slagle looks very natural playing the position. He moves his feet smoothly and makes defeating the opponent often look easy. Quickness off of the snap followed by power and punch makes Slagle a dominant force in the run game. His ability to get to the second level and reach blocks in space adds to the success. The aforementioned skill set and talents also make Slagle consistently good in pass protection. He could see the field early in Ames with the upside of being at least all-conference.

Slagle is a throwback. His work on the field might only be outdone by his dedication to farming. Slagle managed to take care of both ambitions this offseason. A breakout sophomore campaign, junior day visits and camps have resulted in opportunity. Arkansas, Auburn, Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Northwestern, Stanford and Wisconsin have reportedly offered Slagle scholarships. He’s a desirable mix of present production and high ceiling with half of his prep career remaining. Slagle has the makings of a plug-and-play guys at the next level. The first clip on his 10th-grade highlight video features him carrying out an assignment and easily reaching a block on the second level. Slagle is the real deal and worth the price of admission.