Iowa State Football Exodus: 32 Players Enter Portal Amid Coaching Shakeup

The Iowa State Cyclones football program is facing a massive roster overhaul. Thirty-two players have announced plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This follows the departure of head coach Matt Campbell to Penn State.

The portal opens formally on January 2. Starters and key reserves alike are seeking new opportunities. New head coach Jimmy Rogers now faces a monumental rebuilding task in Ames.

Austin Barrett Chooses to Stay With Rebuilding Cyclones

Amid the exodus, some players are reaffirming their commitment. Offensive lineman Austin Barrett recently announced he is staying. He shared his decision on social media, providing a rare positive note for fans.

Barrett transferred to Iowa State from Indiana before the 2025 season. He is the younger brother of Dylan Barrett, who declared for the NFL draft. The three-star recruit appeared in six games this past fall.

He played 52 total snaps, mostly in reserve duty. His longest outing was 30 snaps in a blowout win over South Dakota. With the entire starting offensive line moving on, his decision is significant.

According to Cyclone Report, veterans like Brendan Black are among those departing. This leaves the offensive line room extremely thin. Barrett’s experience, though limited, suddenly becomes very valuable for depth.

Rogers Faces Total Rebuild for 2026 Season

The scale of the turnover is staggering. Jimmy Rogers must replace most of the two-deep roster. The loss of over thirty players creates a glaring talent and experience deficit.

Recruiting and the transfer portal will be immediate priorities. The staff must attract new players to fill dozens of scholarships. This situation places immense pressure on the new coaching staff’s ability to recruit.

Fans should expect a very young team next season. The 2026 campaign will likely focus on development and culture building. Competing in the Big 12 will be an uphill challenge given the current roster churn.

The decision by Austin Barrett to remain with Iowa State football is a small but meaningful commitment during this period of historic change. His choice provides a foundation for Jimmy Rogers to build upon as he works to stabilize the program after the unprecedented transfer portal exodus.

Info at your fingertips

Why are so many Iowa State players leaving?

The primary reason is the coaching change. Head coach Matt Campbell left for Penn State. Many players are entering the portal, likely to follow him or seek a fresh start elsewhere.

Who is the new Iowa State head coach?

Jimmy Rogers is the new head coach. He was promoted after Matt Campbell’s departure. Rogers now oversees the massive roster rebuild.

Will Austin Barrett start next season?

He has a strong chance to earn a major role. The entire starting offensive line from 2025 is gone. This opens many snaps for returning players like Barrett.

How does this affect Iowa State’s 2026 season?

The team will be very young and inexperienced. Competing for a conference title will be difficult. The season will focus on player development under the new staff.

Can Iowa State recruit from the portal too?

Yes, absolutely. The coaching staff will be very active in the portal. They must use it to fill the dozens of available scholarships quickly.

Trusted Sources: Cyclone Report