Top 2026 WR Recruit Chooses Iowa
The Iowa Hawkeyes have added another piece to their 2026 recruiting class, landing three-star wide receiver Xavier Stinson, who announced his commitment on Monday. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound prospect from Vero Beach, Florida, was once pledged to UCLA but reopened his recruitment after the Bruins’ coaching turnover.
Stinson made his first visit to Iowa City on Oct. 25 for the Hawkeyes’ game against Minnesota. He later took official visits to Illinois (Oct. 31), Wisconsin (Nov. 7), and NC State back in June. Ultimately, he picked Iowa over Illinois, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and UCLA.
On3’s Hayes Fawcett broke the news on X, quoting Stinson’s message: “God is good, let’s work.” Stinson reposted it with, “God is good❤️.”
He told 247Sports, “Iowa has shown over and over again that I’m a priority.”
Stinson is rated No. 93 among 2026 wide receivers nationally and No. 78 overall in Florida. His commitment arrives just ahead of the early signing period in December.
What Stinson Adds to Iowa’s Offense
Stinson brings size, production, and big-play ability. As a junior in 2024, he recorded 43 catches for 740 yards (17.2 yards per reception) and seven touchdowns, helping Vero Beach reach the 7A regional finals. Through 11 games of his senior season, he has posted 32 receptions for 513 yards and six scores, maintaining a strong 16.0 yards-per-catch average.
His athleticism stands out: Stinson has been laser-timed under 4.50 seconds in the 40-yard dash and logs an 11.1-second 100-meter time, giving Iowa a true vertical threat with both size and speed. Offensive coordinator Tim Lester gains a receiver capable of stretching defenses and creating explosive plays.
Stinson joins fellow 2026 wideout commits Brody Schaffer and Diondre Smith, giving Iowa a promising trio at the position. The Hawkeyes also recently added tight end Luke Brewer, one of the top prospects in the state.
With Stinson aboard, Iowa now has 15 commitments in its 2026 class, which ranks No. 33 nationally according to 247Sports.
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