⚡ CFB Dashboard

AMES – January was, arguably, the most important month of roster building in Iowa State football history. The month could also determine how successful a tenure new head coach Jimmy Rogers' experiences in Ames, leading the Cyclones for athletic director Jamie Pollard. Iowa State's new roster has about 105 players, including roughly 44 returning players and about 60 newcomers. Less than half of the returning players were on scholarship last season for now Penn State coach Matt Campbell. With the Cyclones set to open spring practices for the first time under Jimmy Rogers on Thursday, here is a look at the five most important returning players for Rogers' program in 2026.