Iowa linebacker Mends to pursue graduate transfer
After missing the 2018 season with an injury, Aaron Mends is moving on from Iowa.
Iowa linebacker Aaron Mends blocks Maryland punt kicker Nicolas Pritchard as he attempts a punt return during the game against Maryland in Kinnick Stadium on Oct. 31, 2015. The Hawkeyes defeated the Terrapins to stay undefeated, 31-15. (The Daily Iowan/Alyssa Hitchcock)
December 3, 2018
Hawkeye linebacker Aaron Mends is planning to pursue a graduate transfer to continue his career, he tweeted Monday.
Mends was set to be a starter for an inexperienced linebacker corps heading into the season, but a knee injury in spring ball kept him sidelined for the entire 2018 season.
Thank you for everything. pic.twitter.com/DQx4nfCEei
— (A)aron (Men)ds™ (@Aaron_Mends) December 3, 2018
“I would like to thank the University of Iowa for the incredible opportunity they have given me,” Mends tweeted. “Throughout my career I have made great friends, memories and, most importantly, earned a college degree. With the support of my coaches and family I have decided to pursue a graduate transfer and continue my academic and athletic careers. Thank you.”
Mends finished his career as a prolific special teams player with 13 tackles and a blocked punt. He also racked up 1.5 sacks for a total loss of 10 yards. He saw action in 12 games in 2015 and 2016 before raising that mark to 13 in 2017.
His blocked punt against Maryland in 2015 led to an Iowa touchdown and helped the Hawkeyes to a 31-15 win to keep their undefeated streak going.
