The college football transfer portal opens on January 2nd, and anticipation is building around the influx of new talent expected to reshape rosters across the nation. Among the programs looking to capitalize on this opportunity is Penn State, which could see around 15 players from Iowa State making the jump. Here, we spotlight five standout Cyclones who could make an immediate impact for Penn State in 2026.
Quarterback Rocco Becht, a senior standing 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 200 pounds, has made a strong case for his potential role under center. Over his college career, Becht has amassed impressive statistics, including 9,274 passing yards and 64 touchdowns. While his past shoulder injury raised some concerns, his quick decision-making and adaptability in an RPO-heavy offense position him as a valuable asset. Becht’s ability to process plays and make decisive moves mirrors that of a skilled point guard in basketball, showcasing a natural understanding of the game. Though he may not be a first-team all-conference candidate, Becht has the capability to elevate Penn State’s performance and lead them to a playoff berth.
Wide receiver Chase Sowell, another senior at 6 feet 3 inches and 210 pounds, is poised to contribute as a reliable target. After stints at Colorado and East Carolina, Sowell had a productive season at Iowa State, culminating in 32 receptions for 500 yards and two touchdowns, with half of his catches coming in November. His size and athleticism enable him to serve as both a deep threat and a dependable option in the passing game, making him a solid WR2 on a good team or a WR3 on a strong roster.
Tight end Benjamin Brahmer, a 6-foot-7, 255-pound talent, also shines as a potential transfer candidate. His notable performance in 2025, which included 37 receptions for 446 yards and six touchdowns, highlights his capability as a versatile receiving threat. With a lineage of strong tight end play at Penn State, Brahmer’s familiarity with multi-tight end sets under Iowa State’s offensive coordinator could translate well within Penn State’s system. His size and catch radius allow him to dominate in the middle of the field, reminiscent of former standout Jesse James.
Defensively, linebacker Caleb Bacon is a standout figure. At 6 feet 4 inches and 240 pounds, he tallied 68 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks in 2025. A former walk-on, Bacon has cemented his place as a key defensive player for the Cyclones, demonstrating both skill and tenacity. His old-school linebacker style makes him a perfect fit for the defensive schemes that prioritize physical play against the run.
Lastly, safety Marcus Neal Jr., a junior measuring 6 feet 1 inch and 215 pounds, showcased strong performance in 2025 with 77 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, one sack, and two interceptions. His instincts and athleticism allow him to excel in a role that blends safety and linebacker responsibilities, making him a versatile player capable of adapting to various defensive strategies. Neal has earned recognition as one of the top safeties in college football, and his addition would bolster Penn State’s defensive lineup.
As the transfer portal season approaches, the possibility of integrating these Iowa State players offers a hopeful outlook for Penn State’s upcoming campaign. Their diverse skill sets could significantly enhance the team’s competitiveness in the quest for playoff success.