Sebastian Castro is latest Iowa star set to shine in NFL

When it comes to producing NFL-ready talent, Iowa has become a key source for developing prospects in recent years. Sebastian Castro is the latest example of the Hawkeyes’ defensive powerhouse. Castro’s performance at the Senior Bowl stood out and put him on scouts’ radars.

The Oak Lawn, Ill., native is the latest Hawkeye set to make the jump to the NFL.

Castro follows in the footsteps of former Iowa defensive backs Riley Moss, Amani Hooker, and Super Bowl LIX champion Cooper DeJean.

Seeing former teammates make it to the league is a motivator for him. The aggressive defensive back believes at the end of the day, football is still football. It’s a mindset that keeps him grounded.

“It’s just a different level of talent,” Castro said. “But football is just still football and it makes me confident in saying that because I’ve seen a lot of guys that came to this building to Iowa and just doing the same things they’ve done too like, why can’t I do the same thing?”

The versatile defensive back finished his final season at Iowa with 59 total tackles (39 solo) , two forced fumbles, one pass deflection and an interception.

Sebastian Castro was perfect CASHtro

Castro demonstrated his versatility in the CASH position in the Hawkeyes’ 4-2-5 hybrid defense where he excelled in both pass coverage and run support. 

At the Senior Bowl, the 5-foot-10, 205-pounder was one of the fastest during practices. He clocked in with a speed of 20.39 mph.

More from Our Esquina

Iowa’s Sebastian Castro learned patience, love early
Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo is a playmaker to watch
Xavier Restrepo could help multiple NFL teams

His aggressiveness and speed were on full display during the fourth quarter when Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe’s fourth-down attempt was unsuccessful.

Castro covered Milroe’s receiver perfectly. Then he tackled the former Alabama quarterback short of the first down, forcing a turnover.

A strong showing at the NFL Combine could further solidify Castro’s draft stock. He is projected to be drafted in the third round. Teams like the Browns, Steelers and Buccaneers, all needing a physical and aggressive defensive back, could be potential landing spots.

“If you’re going to have to beat me, you’re going to have to beat me,” Castro said.

”Like you’re going to have to kill me to do this, as vulgar as it sounds. But no, like that’s how real it gets. I’m not going to lose.”