Iowa State University unveiled its six co-captains for the 2026 football season, a group that blends seasoned veterans with emerging stars as the program prepares for a year marked by a large influx of newcomers.
Leadership Redefined
Quarterback Jaylen Raynor, now a senior after his time at Arkansas State, brings a deep reservoir of experience. He has completed 62.9% of his passes for more than 8,600 yards, 52 touchdowns and 28 interceptions, and he will serve as the offensive anchor.
Running back Aiden Flora, a walk‑on who earned All‑Big 12 second‑team honors as a return specialist last season, is expected to add a dynamic spark on the ground and in special‑team situations.
Defensive tackle Max Baloun, a 6‑foot‑6, 293‑pound presence who captained Washington State before joining the Cyclones, will anchor the front line, while defensive end Isaac Terrell, a Pac‑12 Top Defensive Line Performer, brings pass‑rush expertise after recording 12 tackles for loss in 12 games last year.
Cornerback David Coffey, a redshirt sophomore who appeared in nine games last season, is slated to be a key piece in the secondary, and offensive lineman Jake Taylor, a transfer from Oklahoma who overcame injury setbacks to become a leader of the line, rounds out the leadership group.
A Season of Transition
Coach Jimmy Rogers, in his first year at the helm, emphasized that the co-captains will be tasked with integrating 82 newcomers while preserving the program’s competitive edge. The Cyclones open the season on September 5 against Southeast Missouri at Jack Trice Stadium, where the first test of this new leadership will unfold.