Kristian Welch of 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 as a freshman. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten following his senior campaign in 2019, while also being the defensive team captain. Following 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. In 2023, the Green Bay Packers signed Kristian, where he finished the season.