The Iowa State Cyclones faced a significant challenge in rebuilding their football program, as more than 50 players from the previous season entered the transfer portal. With the departure of head coach Matt Campbell, new head coach Jimmy Rogers found himself in a difficult position, needing to reconstruct the team from the ground up. It was expected that fewer than 30 players from last year’s roster would return, and many of those who remained were not major contributors in 2025.

One of the most pressing issues for the Cyclones was the lack of experience at the quarterback position. Rocco Becht, who had started for the team over the past three years, decided to enter the transfer portal, likely following Campbell to the Penn State Nittany Lions. Additionally, four-star recruit Alex Manske from the Class of 2025 also entered the portal, leaving a significant gap at the most critical position on the roster. However, Rogers made a strong move in the transfer portal, addressing this need effectively.

Iowa State makes splash securing commitment from Jaylen Raynor

According to Pete Thamel of ESPN, the Cyclones have secured a commitment from Jaylen Raynor, a former Arkansas State Red Wolves quarterback. Raynor has one year of eligibility remaining, providing the new staff with a valuable bridge quarterback to start the new era with.

As a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, Raynor has consistently been one of the top performers in the Sun Belt Conference. In 2025, he led the conference in passing attempts with 501, completing 333 passes for 3,361 yards. He threw 19 touchdowns but also had 11 interceptions, which was the highest in the Sun Belt. On the ground, Raynor added 423 yards and seven rushing touchdowns, showcasing his versatility.

Iowa State had the opportunity to see Raynor’s talents firsthand when the teams faced off on September 13. In a 24-16 win for the Cyclones, Raynor recorded 305 total yards and one touchdown.

“The coaching staff is known for winning,” Raynor told ESPN, via Thamel on X. “The head coach is a known winner and done it on multiple levels. It’s a great opportunity, and everyone is super-excited about the opportunity.”

Rogers gained recognition for his success during his only season as head coach of the Washington State Cougars, where he led the team to seven wins. Before that, he achieved significant success with the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, winning a national title in 2023. This track record certainly contributed to the appeal of the Cyclones as a destination for Raynor.

Another factor that made Iowa State an attractive option was the presence of Keith Heckendorf, the former offensive coordinator for Arkansas State. He was hired as the quarterbacks coach with Iowa State, reuniting him with Raynor once again.

Adding a player like Raynor to the roster is a major selling point for Rogers as he continues to build the team this offseason. It will be easier to attract skill position players knowing they will play alongside a dynamic playmaker at quarterback.

Raynor’s arrival is likely to push Connor Moberly, one of the first players to remain committed to the Cyclones after Campbell’s departure, into a backup role entering his redshirt sophomore year.

More Iowa State Football News:
– Iowa State Cyclones Star in Transfer Portal Sets Up Visit to Michigan State Spartans
– Cyclones’ Star Quarterback Reportedly Visiting Penn State Nittany Lions
– Iowa State Cyclones’ Offensive Star Commits to Penn State Nittany Lions
– Iowa State Cyclones Receive Commitment From Star Division II Linebacker