11 Iowa State Players Matt Campbell Should Bring to Penn State
Penn State has found its new head coach in Matt Campbell, following the departure of James Franklin. With the transfer portal opening on January 2, Campbell and the Nittany Lions face the challenge of replenishing their roster, which has seen a significant number of seniors graduate and underclassmen depart. The team's 2025 season was marked by a strong senior presence, with 34 players honored on Senior Day, many of whom have exhausted their eligibility.
Among the key players Campbell should consider bringing to Penn State are:
Redshirt Junior Quarterback Rocco Becht: Becht has been a consistent starter for Campbell's Cyclones team for three seasons. He stands at 6-1 and 210 pounds, showcasing his physicality and potential. In 2023, he earned second-team All-America and Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors. In 2024, he maintained his efficiency, throwing for over 240 yards per game with 48 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. Becht's dual-threat abilities, including 19 career rushing scores, make him a valuable asset.
Junior Running Backs Carson Hanson and Abu Sama III: Hanson and Sama formed a dynamic duo for Iowa State this season, contributing significantly to the team's 51st-place ranking in rushing yards. Hanson, with 950 yards and six touchdowns, and Sama, with 732 yards and five scores, demonstrated their productivity. Both players have shown growth, with Hanson breaking out in 2024 and Sama excelling since enrolling in 2023.
Junior Tight End Benjamin Brahmer: Brahmer, a 6-7 and 255-pound powerhouse, has been a crucial part of Iowa State's offense, despite a season-ending injury in 2024. He earned freshman All-American and All-Big 12 honorable mention accolades in 2023. In 2025, he had his best campaign, catching 37 passes for 446 yards and six touchdowns, solidifying his status as an all-conference second-team nominee.
Sophomore Defensive Back Marcus Neal Jr.: Neal Jr. played a pivotal role in Iowa State's defense, which ranked 27th in scoring in 2025. He earned third-team All-Big 12 recognition, showcasing his impact. Neal Jr. led the team with 77 tackles, two interceptions, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble, making him a key defensive asset.
Redshirt Junior Defensive Back Jontez Williams: Williams, despite lacking statistical recognition, was a standout performer for Iowa State. He was targeted 15 times in coverage and allowed only eight receptions, grading as the team's top defender. Williams, from Florida, has been a consistent presence since redshirting in 2022 and was a second-team All-Big 12 selection in 2024.
Junior Linebacker Kooper Ebel: Ebel, with 77 tackles, tied with Neal Jr. for the team lead. His experience in the 3-3-5 scheme could be valuable if Campbell brings in his longtime defensive coordinator, Jon Heacock. Ebel's strong performance in 2024, with 69 tackles, further highlights his potential.
Redshirt Junior Wide Receiver Chase Sowell: Sowell's versatility is evident in his career path, having played at three different schools. He redshirted at Colorado, transferred to East Carolina, and now joins the Cyclones. With 500 yards and two touchdowns, he finished second among Iowa State receivers. His size (6-3 and 210 pounds) and receiving skills make him an attractive prospect.
Sophomore Wide Receiver Brett Eskildsen: Eskildsen, a big-name transfer for Campbell, led the Cyclones in 2025 with 30 catches for 526 yards and five touchdowns. His three-star prospect status from Frisco, Texas, adds to his appeal.
2026 4-Star Wide Receiver Jeffrey Roberts: Roberts, a top-500 prospect according to 247Sports Composite, is an intriguing wide receiver prospect. Standing at 6 feet and 180 pounds, he has a strong connection with Campbell, as his recruitment primarily focused on Iowa State. Roberts' high school achievements include 117 receptions for 2,519 yards and 31 touchdowns.
2026 3-Star Defensive End Elijah Reeder: Reeder, another top-500 signee, comes from a recruiting area that overlaps with Penn State. With 50 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, and eight sacks in his senior year, he has the potential to make an immediate impact.
As Campbell navigates the transfer portal and builds his staff, these players could be instrumental in shaping Penn State's future success.
