Iowa State football names team captains for 2026 season

Iowa State football coach Jimmy Rogers has introduced the six co-captains for the 2026 season. This season's roster includes 82 first-year players. Quarterback Jaylen Raynor, entering his senior year, emerged as a natural leader upon joining the team from Arkansas State three years ago. He boasts an impressive 62.9% completion rate, 8,694 career passing yards, 52 touchdowns, and 28 interceptions.

In addition to his passing abilities, he adds 1,183 career rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 414 carries. Running back Aiden Flora, a former walk-on, has developed into a promising talent. After starting as an All-Big 12 second-team returner last season, Flora is anticipated to assume a more prominent role in the offense this year.

Offensive lineman Jake Taylor, acquired from Oklahoma through the transfer portal, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Cyclones. The Texas transfer, who has appeared in four games since joining the Sooners, is now healthy and eager to contribute at Iowa State. Defensive tackle Max Baloun, a six-foot-six, 293-pound player, formerly served as team captain at Washington State.

Baloun, who has been a crucial part of the team for seven years, returns after recovering from a season-ending ACL injury that forced him out of the 2025 season after just four games. Defensive end Isaac Terrell, another transfer from Washington State, made a career year in 2024. He played in 12 games and recorded six starts, finishing with 28 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and seven sacks.

He was recognized as the Pac-12 Conference Top Defensive Line Performer. Cornerback David Coffey, a redshirt sophomore, has become a vital member of the Cyclones' defense. Despite injuries impacting Iowa State's defense last season, Coffey is expected to be an integral player on the secondary this year. The Iowa State football team is set to begin their 2026 campaign on Saturday, September 5th, against Southeast Missouri at Jack Trice Stadium.