The top tight end in Wisconsin, Korz Loken of Iola-Scandinavia, receives an offer from an NCAA powerhouse.

In the quiet central Wisconsin town of Iola—population just over 1,200—a major college football story is unfolding. Korz Loken, a standout athlete from Iola-Scandinavia High School, has gone from small-town sensation to national recruiting target. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound tight end received a scholarship offer this week from one of college football’s biggest powerhouses, confirming what many in the Badger State already believed: Loken is the real deal.

Though Iola-Scandinavia is better known for Friday night lights than national headlines, the offer to Loken marks a major moment in Wisconsin high school football. A player from a Division 6 school being recruited by a national title contender is not just rare—it’s remarkable.

The offer comes as Loken continues to climb recruiting boards and impress coaches across the country with his unique blend of size, athleticism, and versatility. He has now officially joined the radar of elite programs, and the message is clear: Korz Loken is no longer just the best tight end in Wisconsin—he’s a national prospect with the attention of college football royalty.

Small Town, Big Game

Growing up in Iola, football is more than a pastime—it’s a tradition. But rarely does a player from this level break through to the national recruiting scene. Loken is doing just that.

A multi-sport athlete who stars in basketball and track in addition to football, Loken has built a reputation as a dominant, physical presence with soft hands and deceptive speed. He’s a matchup nightmare for defenders at the high school level and projects as a true hybrid tight end at the college level—able to line up in-line, flex out to the slot, or even split wide in certain sets.

In his junior season, Loken posted gaudy numbers despite facing double teams and bracket coverage most Friday nights. He recorded 48 catches for 785 yards and 11 touchdowns, while also serving as a fierce blocker in Iola-Scandinavia’s run-heavy system. On defense, he added 55 tackles, 8 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles—proving his dominance on both sides of the ball.

Those stats are impressive in any context. But doing it while playing against smaller-school competition in the northern Midwest—and still drawing offers from Power 5 giants—shows just how elite Loken’s skill set really is.

The Offer That Changed Everything

While Loken already held offers from several regional programs and mid-major schools, the game changed this week when he got the call from a blueblood program with multiple national championships and a reputation for developing NFL talent.

The school (whose name is being withheld pending Loken’s announcement, per family request) has a history of sending tight ends to the pros and competes annually for conference titles and College Football Playoff appearances. The offer represents not only a validation of Loken’s ability—but a gateway to the sport’s biggest stage.

“This one hit different,” Loken said in a brief conversation following the offer. “It’s the kind of school you dream about when you’re a kid. I’ve worked for this. But to actually get the call—it’s hard to put into words.”

According to multiple sources, the offer came after Loken dominated during a private workout session in front of college scouts, where he showcased improved footwork, acceleration off the line, and high-level catching ability against top regional defenders.

Coaches Are Taking Notice

It’s not just the big-time offer that’s turning heads—it’s how Loken is earning it. His work ethic and coachability have made him a favorite of recruiters, and his upside has evaluators drawing comparisons to some of the top tight ends in the country.

“His frame and athleticism are off the charts,” said one Big Ten recruiting coordinator. “He’s still filling out physically, but the foundation is there to be a complete tight end. He’s not just a pass-catcher—he’s a willing blocker who understands the game.”

Loken has taken several unofficial visits this spring, including stops at Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Notre Dame. While the in-state Badgers have long been considered a strong contender, this new offer may shift the landscape dramatically.

His summer schedule is expected to include camp visits to other SEC and Big Ten powers, and a commitment could come before the start of his senior season.

“We’re just taking it all in right now,” said his father, Mark Loken. “Korz is staying grounded. He knows nothing’s guaranteed. But this is a great moment for our family and our community.”

Tight End Talent in High Demand

The tight end position is evolving rapidly in college football, and prospects like Loken are in high demand. With spread offenses seeking mismatch creators and NFL teams prioritizing hybrid playmakers, a tall, athletic tight end who can stretch the field and hold his own in the trenches is gold.

Programs like Georgia, Michigan, and Notre Dame have turned the position into a pipeline to the NFL. And based on Loken’s skill set, he fits the mold of the next generation of college stars.

“He’s one of the top 10 tight ends nationally in our 2026 rankings,” said a 247Sports regional analyst. “What separates him is that he’s not a one-trick pony. He can block, catch, and move like a big receiver. He reminds me of a young Brock Bowers with a little more edge in the run game.”

With more programs expected to extend offers in the coming weeks, Loken’s national profile is only just beginning to rise.

Community Support Fuels the Dream

Back in Iola, Loken’s rise has become a source of pride. The small-town community has rallied around the young star, showing up in force for every home game and tracking his recruiting journey closely.

“Everyone’s been following it. From the grocery store to the gas station, people are always asking, ‘Where’s Korz going next?’” said Iola-Scandinavia head coach Scott Erickson. “He’s not just a great athlete—he’s a great teammate, student, and leader. You won’t find a more grounded kid.”

That humility has made Loken a role model in the community, where younger players look up to him as proof that hard work and talent can open doors—no matter where you’re from.

“It’s crazy to think a kid from Iola could play on Saturdays on ESPN or ABC,” said local fan Jeff Mikkelson. “But with Korz, nothing seems too big for him. He’s got that ‘it’ factor.”

What’s Next?

With the first major national offer on the table, Loken is expected to take a measured approach. He’s scheduled to attend multiple camps and showcase events this summer, including the Rivals Five-Star Challenge and Under Armour Future 50.

He also plans to narrow his list by late summer and could commit before his senior season kicks off in August.

Wherever he lands, Loken’s path will serve as a reminder that greatness can come from unexpected places. The journey from Iola to the national stage is far from over—but the first major milestone has arrived.

And for Korz Loken, this is just the beginning.