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 must act quickly to fill their roster. The 2025 team was laden with seniors, many of whom have exhausted their eligibility, and underclassmen are expected to depart via the transfer portal.
Here are some key players from Iowa State's current and future rosters that Campbell should consider bringing to Penn State:
Redshirt Junior Quarterback Rocco Becht: Becht has been a standout for three seasons, earning second-team All-America and Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2023, and an all-Big 12 honorable mention in 2024. He threw for 215.33 yards per game this season with 16 touchdowns to nine interceptions, but was more efficient in previous years.
Junior Running Backs Carson Hanson and Abu Sama III: Hanson and Sama formed a strong duo for Iowa State this season, with Hanson accumulating 950 yards and six touchdowns on 5.1 yards per carry, and Sama contributing 732 yards and five scores on 5.2 yards per tote. Both have been productive since enrolling, with Hanson named All-Big 12 second-team this year.
Junior Tight End Benjamin Brahmer: Brahmer, a massive 6-7 and 255 pounds, was a key player for Iowa State, earning freshman All-American and All-Big 12 honorable mention honors in 2023. He had his best campaign in 2025, hauling in 37 receptions for 446 yards and a team-high six touchdowns.
Sophomore Defensive Back Marcus Neal Jr.: Neal was a primary factor in Iowa State's defense, earning third-team All-Big 12 marks. He tied for the team lead with 77 tackles, added two interceptions, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
Redshirt Junior Defensive Back Jontez Williams: Williams, despite not having impressive stats, was targeted 15 times in coverage and allowed just eight receptions. He graded as the Cyclones' top defender and has played in every game since redshirting in 2022.
Junior Linebacker Kooper Ebel: Ebel tied with Neal with 77 tackles and broke up three passes this season. He had a strong 2024 season with 69 tackles, and Campbell may consider bringing him to Penn State.
Redshirt Junior Wide Receiver Chase Sowell: Sowell has played at three different schools, including Colorado, East Carolina, and Iowa State. He finished second among Iowa State receivers with 500 yards and scored two touchdowns. His size and experience make him an attractive option.
Sophomore Wide Receiver Brett Eskildsen: Eskildsen led the Cyclones in 2025 with 30 catches for 526 yards and five touchdowns in his first year as a starter. He was a three-star prospect from Frisco, Texas.
2026 4-Star Wide Receiver Jeffrey Roberts: Roberts is an intriguing prospect at 6-foot and 180 pounds. He is from Ames, Iowa, and has a strong relationship with Campbell. Roberts finished his high school career with impressive statistics, including 117 receptions for 2,519 yards and 31 touchdowns.
2026 3-Star Defensive End Elijah Reeder: Reeder, a New Jersey standout, recorded 50 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, and eight sacks in his senior year. He is a top-500 signee and Campbell should consider bringing him to Penn State.
These players offer a mix of experience, talent, and potential, and Campbell's ability to bring them to Penn State could significantly impact the team's success in the upcoming season.
