IOWA CITY, Iowa — Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara announced he is entering the transfer portal in an Instagram post Wednesday morning.
McNamara hasn't played a snap since sustaining a concussion against Northwestern in October.
This season, he started the first eight games compiling a 5-3 record and throwing for 1,017 yards with six touchdowns and five interceptions.
In a career hampered by injuries, McNamara has one season of eligibility remaining due to having an extra year of eligibility from the shortened 2020 COVID season and a redshirt season after only playing four games for the Hawkeyes in 2023 because of a torn ACL.
McNamara started his career at Michigan in 2020 before transferring to the Hawkeyes two years ago. However, he missed a significant portion of 2023 fall camp with a leg injury before his season ended after tearing his ACL.
In his five starts in 2023, McNamara completed 46-of-90 passes for 505 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions.
He finishes his career at Iowa with 1,522 yards, 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions with a 57.3% completion percentage.
2021 was his best career season, leading Michigan to a Big Ten title where they landed a spot in the college football playoffs. He played in 14 games, throwing for 2,576 yards and 15 touchdowns with six interceptions.
In his message to social media, McNamara said:
"My last two years at the University of Iowa have been an incredible journey. Through so many ups and downs, I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing people and experiences I’ve had here. I am deeply grateful for the relationships I’ve built with my teammates, coaches, and newfound friends.
I want to specifically thank Coach Ferentz, Coach Lester, and the entire Iowa Football staff for their unwavering support and wisdom. I will truly miss this program and state, and they will always hold a special place in my heart.
With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal. I’m looking forward to this offseason, being the healthiest I’ve been in years, and continuing my growth as a player, leader, and person. I am excited to see where God takes my football journey next.
Now and forever, Go Hawks!"