Iowa State Cyclones see record transfers and a running back exit amid portal debate

Iowa State University led the nation in football transfers this offseason, with 55 players entering the transfer portal and the women's basketball team losing nine athletes. Only 21 scholarship football players are expected to return for the 2026 season. Director of Cyclone Athletics Jamie Pollard warned that the portal threatens the legacy of athletes who leave, saying they may never see their jerseys in the rafters.

Amid the broader transfer discussion, redshirt freshman running back Jayden Jackson announced his departure from the program after head coach Matt Campbell expressed concerns about his attitude, marking a notable individual exit in a period of extensive roster turnover.