Iowa State is set to embark on an ambitious 2026 campaign, a season that will begin with a high‑profile stop at the Dallas Cowboys' practice facility for the Big 12 Media Days celebration. The move underscores the program’s growing national visibility and sets the stage for a year in which the Cyclones hope to translate preseason optimism into on‑field success.
The Road Ahead
At the heart of the conversation is quarterback Jaylen Raynor, who has been earmarked as the team’s starter for the upcoming year. After a promising stint as a backup, Raynor’s blend of poise and arm strength has coaches confident that he can manage the offense and keep the Cyclones competitive in the Big 12.
The roster also features standout talent on both sides of the ball. Running back Cameron Pettaway is expected to shoulder a heavy load in the backfield, while pass rusher Isaac Terrell is projected to rank among the conference’s most feared edge rushers. On defense, Max Baloun will return despite a knee injury, and Bryson Lamb’s technical mastery of interior play has earned him praise as a future anchor of the defensive line.
Adding depth to the defensive front, Malaki Ta'ase is slated to make an immediate impact, and former South Dakota standout Caden Crawford brings a track record of production that could bolster the secondary. Special teams will also see a boost from Aiden Flora, whose role in the return game is expected to shift momentum in key moments.
Other notable contributors include Cody Jackson, a former top‑100 recruit hoping to unlock his physical potential within the Big 12, and Carter Pabst, who could become a reliable target in the passing attack. Wide receiver Evan Boyd, with Power Conference pedigree, and Micah Harper, whose importance has risen after a knee setback for a teammate, round out a deep receiving corps.
Experience from previous coaching staff remains a factor, with holdover David Coffey and newcomer Sullivan Schlimgen both expected to see early playing time. Meanwhile, veterans like Garret Rutledge and Braden Smith are being given opportunities to claim starting roles, while Malcolm Jones and Carson Willich are positioned to anchor the linebacker corps.
The Cyclones will also benefit from the arrival of transfer Jahiem Singleton, who brings a fresh perspective to the defense, and from the health‑focused rehabilitation of Kyle Konrady, who enters the season fully fit after a strong previous campaign. Backup quarterback Zane Flores rounds out a group that, on paper, appears balanced and ready to compete.