Sebastian Castro Returning for 6th Year

Sebastian Castro said last month that the NFL Draft advisory board told him that he'd be a late-round pick if he came out this year. The Iowa safety heard he could improve his stock with another strong season in 2024. 

Saturday afternoon, he announced he would be returning to the Hawkeyes for one more go-around. He'll look to build on an All-American performance this fall and help the Hawkeyes stay dominant on defense. 

In '23, Pro Football Focus tabbed Castro as a first-team All-America, while the Associated Press put him on its third-team. The Illinois native was named second-team All-Big Ten by league media and honorable mention by conference coaches. 

Castro led Iowa with eight pass break-ups and three interceptions this past season. He recorded 61 tackles (41 solo, 8 for loss) playing strong safety and the team's hybrid defensive back/linebacker position. 

Nick DeJong, Jay Higgins, Luke Lachey and Jermari Harris previously stated that they would put off taking a shot at the pros for another year with the Hawkeyes. Nick Jackson, Kyler Fisher and Quinn Schulte have yet to announce their intentions for '24.