Iowa State's New-Look Roster: Top Players 25-21 Preview
Iowa State lost all starters from last season, so the 2026 team will feature many new faces. The article ranks players 25-21, including defensive tackles Zaimir Hawk and Bryson Lamb, and others. These players face tough competition for snaps.
The Cyclones' roster overhaul stems from the departure of every starter on both sides of the ball, making the 2026 squad largely unproven. Head coach Jimmy Rogers and defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit brought several Washington State transfers with them, including defensive tackle Bryson Lamb and receiver Carter Pabst, who already understand the system. Meanwhile, Michigan State transfers Gavin Broscious and Evan Boyd add Power Four experience, with Boyd's two-catch, 40-yard outing against Indiana—the eventual national champions—highlighting his potential. The defensive line stands as the team's deepest unit, creating fierce competition for snaps among returning players like Zaimir Hawk and newcomers alike.
This roster turnover could significantly shape Iowa State's competitive trajectory in the 2026 season, affecting fan engagement and conference standings. With an entirely new starting lineup, the team's early performance may influence ticket sales, viewership, and recruiting momentum. The reliance on transfer portal acquisitions reflects broader trends in college athletics, where roster continuity is increasingly rare. Success or struggle in the opener against SEMO could set the tone for how alumni and supporters perceive the program's rebuilding effort.