Kristian Welch, from Iola, Wisconsin, earned numerous all-conference and all-state honors while attending Iola-Scandinavia High School before joining the Iowa Hawkeyes in 2016. Kristian was one of 10 true freshmen to see the field in his first year as a Hawkeye, playing in all 13 games. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten following his senior campaign in 2019, while also serving as the defensive team captain. After his time as a Hawkeye, Kristian signed a free agent contract with the Baltimore Ravens, where he played for three seasons, appearing in 46 games. Kristian spent the 2023 season with the Green Bay Packers and eventually found his way back to Baltimore in 2024, where he played for the AFC North Champion Ravens.