The Iowa State Cyclones are heading into the new season with a roster that looks markedly different from the one that finished 8‑4 a year ago. A cascade of departures through the transfer portal has stripped the team of several key contributors, most notably quarterback Jaylen Raynor, leaving a void that will be felt across both offense and leadership.
While the Cyclones managed an 8‑4 record in 2026 and generated optimism about a potential playoff run, the loss of core players to programs such as Penn State has shifted the narrative. The question now is whether the remaining talent can sustain the level of performance required to compete in the Power Five.
A roster reshaped by the portal
Coach Jimmy Rogers has attempted to plug the gaps by bringing in a wave of newcomers, many of whom come from non‑Division I programs. Their lack of experience at the highest collegiate level raises doubts about how quickly they can adapt to the speed and physicality of Big 12 play.
The upcoming season opener against Southeast Missouri State will serve as the first real test of this reshaped squad. It offers a glimpse into how the new pieces fit together and whether they can generate the momentum needed to navigate a demanding conference schedule.
If the Cyclones can harness the potential of their new additions and develop chemistry early, they may still contend for a conference title. However, the early schedule will be unforgiving, and any misstep could expose the gaps left by departed stars. The season will ultimately be a measuring stick for both the program’s resilience and its ability to rebuild in a rapidly evolving college football landscape.