LAS VEGAS — University of Iowa defensive back Dane Belton was selected by the New York Giants in the fourth round of Saturday’s NFL Draft. Belton was the 114th player picked overall. He is the 17th defensive back selected in the Kirk Ferentz era.
Belton (6-foot-1, 205-pounds) is a native of Tampa, Florida. He started all 14 games in 2021, playing both outside linebacker and strong safety. He earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from both league coaches and media.
Belton recorded 46 tackles, including three tackles for loss. He led the Hawkeyes with five interceptions as the defense set a school record with 25 thefts in 14 games. He also led the team with seven pass break-ups and earned the Coaches Appreciation Award for defense. Belton had a career-best two interceptions in Iowa’s win at Northwestern.
During his Hawkeye career Belton twice earned Academic All-Big Ten honors and was named to the Dean’s List during the 2021 spring semester. He was a member of the team leadership group in his final two seasons.
The Giants posted a 4-13 record during the 2021 season.
Iowa has had at least one player drafted in every NFL Draft since 1978, including 11 first round selections. Belton is the 81st player coached by Kirk Ferentz at the University of Iowa to be selected in the NFL Draft.
