Iowa State football navigated a mixed bag of highs and lows during Spring practices, but the roster finally looks ready for a new beginning and sits in encouraging shape. The biggest challenge now, however, is filling the gaps.
Cyclones’ Biggest Wins and Losses From Spring Practices and Annual Showcase
Biggest Wins for Iowa State
The Cyclones appeared to find their rhythm during the annual Spring Showcase on April 25. Most notably, Jaylen Raynor has outright positioned himself as Iowa State’s starting quarterback. Sure, it’s still early, but there are returns on depth behind him: projected backup Zane Flores and third-string option Connor Moberly.
Each put up solid performances in the showcase and proved themselves as viable options if called upon. Better yet, that’s not the only position looking up.
The receiving core follows a similar script, now anchored by transfers Jordyn Bailey and Omari Hayes. Both are likely to lock down the top two spots, with the Cyclones’ only 2025 returner, Dominic Overby, slated to take the third and final slot.
Beyond skill positions, this team looked sharper back in April. It’s seen a much higher production rate on the offensive line, back in the secondary, and even on special teams. Look forward to seeing more of the starters Spring’s promised starters next season, and less of third and fourth stringers on each side of the ball.
Aiden Flora’s return could break barriers
Head coach Jimmy Rogers clearly did some work behind the scenes to convince sophomore running back Aiden Flora to return, and after a promising but limited role last season, he looks primed for a breakout year. His lone rushing touchdown came against Kansas, but his versatility and efficiency mirror what Iowa State previously got from Carson Hansen.
On special teams, Flora was the primary return man. With every opportunity given, he didn’t disappoint. Flora totaled 209 yards, ending the year as the lone specialist with an average of 20 or more yards with five or more returns. If he’s able to mirror that production and earn anything close to a starting role in the backfield, there’s a real threat for opposing teams to deal with.
Iowa State’s offense historically rewards backs who can stay on the field in multiple phases, and Flora’s ability to contribute as both a runner and returner gives him a special sort of flexibility. Even with just 8-10 carries per contest, Flora becomes a legitimate problem in open space.
Losses needing fast attention
Two big moves happened between mid-April and early May: a season-ending ACL injury to Toledo transfer Braden Awls and the departure of a projected depth piece in running back Jayden Jackson. On paper, it’s just two players, but in reality, they were both important pieces of the roster’s early-season planning and rotational balance.
Given the timing, it’s more than just unfortunate. The transfer portal window long since closed, and with spring practices now over, there’s minimal time to experiment or bring in external reinforcements. If the Cyclones are looking to reshape the team’s identity, it has to happen quickly with the personnel already in place.
If nothing else, it’s the ripple effect of a roster that’s already undergone significant turnover and how quickly stability can shift. Younger players now have to prove themselves faster, especially if they’re asked to contribute immediately rather than develop gradually. That puts a sharper edge on every remaining practice rep, where depth roles may no longer be “future” spots but moments’ notice decisions.
On a more positive note, the pressure isn’t concentrated in just one position group. The challenge is spread across multiple units, which still gives the staff options in how they redistribute snaps and responsibilities. If they can identify a few quick risers, the early-season concerns can stabilize into a more balanced rotation.
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