Iowa football is once again proving it's a factory for NFL-ready offensive linemen, and the latest standout is Kade Pieper. Under the guidance of offensive line coach George Barnett—who recently saw three of his five starters selected in the 2026 NFL Draft—Pieper has returned for another season with the Hawkeyes, and he's already generating serious first-round buzz.

CBS Sports' latest mock draft has Pieper heading to the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 23 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. Analyst Ryan Wilson praises him as an "athletic interior lineman who shines in pass protection and in zone schemes," noting that as he continues to build functional strength, he has the potential to become one of the best interior linemen in his class.

The Cowboys are a dream landing spot for any offensive lineman. Dallas has a storied history of developing elite blockers, from Tyron Smith and Travis Frederick to Zack Martin, and more recently, Tyler Smith, Tyler Booker, Tyler Guyton, and Cooper Beebe. Pieper would be stepping into a system that knows how to turn raw talent into star power.

With NFL scouts expected to have him under a microscope this season, Pieper has a prime opportunity to elevate his draft stock even further. All eyes will be on Iowa's offensive line this year—and for good reason.