The Cyclones had been one of the most aggressive programs chasing DJ Hunter, a highly touted quarterback from the Class of 2027 who originally pledged to Kentucky before flipping his commitment.
Hunter’s recruitment seemed to be moving forward smoothly; he attended the spring showcase in Ames, praised the coaching staff, and was slated to take an official visit at the end of May. However, a lingering injury from his junior season limited his playing time, prompting the Cyclones to reconsider their investment.
A New Quarterback Landscape in Ames
With the visit canceled, Iowa State quickly pivoted, turning its attention to Brodie Campbell, a Georgia product who is also being courted by Georgia Tech, Arkansas and Maryland. Analysts view the Yellow Jackets as the current favorites, but the Cyclones hope to make a late surge.
Regardless of the shifting recruiting board, the Cyclones’ depth chart for the upcoming season is already taking shape. Jaylen Raynor will start at quarterback, while Zane Flores and Connor Moberly battle for the backup role. In addition, Hudson Kurland, the sole quarterback recruit for the Class of 2026, will join the program next fall.
The moves underscore how quickly recruiting narratives can change in college football, where injury, timing and competing programs can reshape a team’s plans overnight.