Iona Prep two-way lineman Dashawn Harley has seen more than his share of victories at the high school level.
Why change things up in college?
Harley recently committed to play for Rhode Island, a rising contender that has ended the last two seasons in the FCS Top 25. The Rams are a combined 22-6 since the start of 2024 and reached the second round of the FCS playoffs the last two years.
“They’re just a big winning culture,” Harley said. “I’m looking forward to going from my high school’s culture to college culture.”
Harley said Rhode Island intends to use him as a defensive lineman.
The 6-foot-3, 285-pound Harley will join a remarkably consistent Rhode Island program. Counting their 2-1 record during the 2020 COVID season, Jim Fleming’s Rams have rattled off six straight winning records.
Last year marked the first time in program history the Rams went undefeated in Colonial Athletic Association play. Rhode Island last had a perfect conference season in 1985 while still playing in the Yankee Conference.
First, though, Harley has unfinished business. Iona Prep went 11-1 and won the NYCHSFL AAA Championship and New York State Catholic Championship. The Gaels have captured three titles since 2021 and four dating back to 2008.
“I think I’ve [improved] my ability to play both sides,” Harley told Legacy Library. “That’s really helped me to become a better player and asset to the team.”
Iona Prep opens its 2026 season against Syracuse CBA at the JMA Wireless Dome (AKA the Carrier Dome) on Sept. 3.
As for Rhode Island, the Rams open the 2026 season at Merrimack on Aug. 28 and play at Temple one week later.
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