Young Iowa backups not discouraged when returners, like Jackson & Higgins, take starting spots [Video]

IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – Jaxon Rexroth and Jaden Harrell, who will be seniors this fall, have been backups so far at Iowa.

“There’s nothing wrong with biding your time learning behind some great players,” said Rexroth.

“Coach (Seth) Wallace does a great job of making everybody feel important, whether you’re the last linebacker in the room or the first one you’re gonna get coached the exact same,” Harrell said.

When last year’s starters Nick Jackson and Jay Higgins decided to return to school, it likely meant another year on the bench and on special teams for Rexroth and Harrell.

Many would be discouraged. But not at Iowa, players say.

“It’s been great learning from this last year,” said Rexroth. “It actually means a lot to have those guys there.”

Higgins waited his turn behind All-American Jack Campbell. Harrell says that encourages him, he knows he could be next.

“Jay …