The Iowa State Cyclones are facing a steep setback as they prepare for the 2026 campaign. Two of their most promising transfers, Salahadin Allah and Braden Awls, have been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining serious injuries. Allah, who arrived from the Oregon State Beavers, damaged his Achilles tendon and will not return until spring, while Awls, a former Toledo Rockets standout, suffered a season‑ending setback during off‑season workouts.
Rebuilding the backfield
The loss of Allah’s production leaves a void at running back, a position that had already been bolstered by Jayden Jackson’s breakout performances. With Jackson having departed the program after the injury, the Cyclones now look to Cameron Pettaway and Aiden Flora to shoulder the rushing load. Both players are expected to step up under increased scrutiny.
Fresh faces may still arrive through the transfer portal. The staff has been in contact with JUCO All‑American running back Markellus Bass, and a recent visit from Arnold Barnes III, a former Tulane Green Wave back, suggests the program is actively seeking additional depth. Barnes could bring experience and a proven track record to the backfield.
Meanwhile, younger talent is being given a chance to prove itself. Freshmen Caleb Francois and Gabriel Wilson are slated to receive more snaps, offering a glimpse of the future while the team navigates the current crisis.
Coaching staff members are emphasizing resilience and adaptability. By integrating new transfers and giving emerging players opportunities, the Cyclones hope to maintain competitiveness in the Big 12 and keep their postseason aspirations alive.
The coming weeks will test the depth chart as the team adjusts to missing key contributors. Early practice reports indicate that Pettaway’s speed and Flora’s agility are already making an impact, but the true test will come when the season opener arrives.