The Iowa State Cyclones are gearing up for an exciting matchup in the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Miami. However, the team faces challenges off the field as several players have decided to enter the transfer portal. This trend isn’t just limited to Iowa State; even teams preparing for major bowl games are feeling the impact of player departures. Let’s dive into the Cyclones’ recent transfer portal losses and what it means for the program moving forward.
Key Players Leaving Iowa State
As the transfer portal continues to reshape college football, Iowa State has seen a mix of experienced players and young prospects decide to seek opportunities elsewhere. Here’s a closer look at the players who have entered the portal:
Jacob Ellis, LB
Jacob Ellis joined the Cyclones as a JUCO transfer from Iowa Western after the 2021 season. Over the past two years, he has contributed significantly, recording 15 tackles in 2023 and 17 in 2024. With only one season of eligibility left, Ellis is looking for a fresh start after making his mark on the Cyclones.
Kenard Snyder, DE
Kenard Snyder arrived at Iowa State after a successful stint at UL-Monroe, where he tallied 121 tackles and 6.5 sacks over two seasons. While his time with the Cyclones was less productive, with just eight tackles and two sacks in 10 games, Snyder will have one season left to showcase his skills elsewhere.
AJ Burton, OL
AJ Burton, a recruit from Colorado, has yet to see game action during his time with the Cyclones. With four years of eligibility remaining, Burton will be looking to find a program where he can make an impact on the field.
Trevon Howard, S
Trevon Howard has faced a tough road with injuries during his three seasons at Iowa State. Despite showing promise with 14 tackles in 2022, he struggled to stay on the field, managing only nine tackles in 2023 and four in 2024. With two seasons of eligibility left, Howard will seek a program that can better accommodate his health needs.
Trent Jones II, DL
Trent Jones II made a name for himself as a walk-on who gradually earned a more significant role on the team. In 2023, he recorded 19 tackles and three sacks, but his production dipped to just six tackles in 2024. With only one year of eligibility remaining, Jones will be looking for a new opportunity to finish his college career strong.
JJ Kohl, QB
JJ Kohl, a promising quarterback prospect from Iowa, had a limited role in 2023, completing 9 of 11 passes for 23 yards and rushing for 32 yards. His limited appearances continued into 2024, where he only played in one game. With three years of eligibility left, Kohl is likely to attract attention in the portal as he seeks a chance to showcase his talents.
Drake Knobloch, LS
Long snapper Drake Knobloch has had a quiet but essential role on the team. He participated in 13 games in 2023 but saw diminished action in 2024, playing only two games. With two seasons of eligibility remaining, Knobloch will be looking for a program that values his unique skill set.
Keegan Shackford, K
As a senior, Keegan Shackford handled kickoffs for Iowa State in 2023 but saw reduced opportunities in 2024. With one season of eligibility left, Shackford will be seeking a new home to finish his college career.
Ryan Robinson Jr., CB
Ryan Robinson Jr. transferred from LSU, where he walked on and played in four games. Unfortunately, he didn’t see any action during his time at Iowa State and is now looking for a fresh start with three seasons of eligibility remaining.
The Impact of the Transfer Portal
The transfer portal has become a double-edged sword for college football programs. On one hand, it allows players to seek better opportunities and find a program that fits their needs. On the other hand, it can leave teams scrambling to fill gaps in their rosters, especially as they prepare for crucial bowl games.
For Iowa State, the loss of these players presents both challenges and opportunities. The coaching staff will need to adapt and find ways to fill the void left by these departures. This may involve looking for new recruits or utilizing existing players in different roles.
What Lies Ahead for Iowa State
As the Cyclones prepare for the Pop-Tarts Bowl, they must focus on the task at hand while also addressing the implications of the transfer portal. The upcoming game against Miami will be a crucial test, not only for the current roster but also for the future direction of the program.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Iowa State will respond to these challenges. Will they be able to maintain their competitive edge despite the losses? The coming weeks will be pivotal for the Cyclones as they navigate this ever-changing landscape of college football.
What’s your take on Iowa State’s portal losses? Share your thoughts below in the comments section!
