Categories: College University Athletics

Iowa State University Cyclones Excel at 2025 NFL Draft Combine

Iowa State Cyclones players display their skills at the NFL Draft Combine.

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News Summary

The Iowa State Cyclones are making headlines after a record-breaking 2024 season, with five players invited to the 2025 NFL Draft Combine. This season marked the Cyclones’ best performance ever, finishing with an 11-3 record and participating in the Big 12 Championship game. Notable players include star wide receivers who set remarkable records, demonstrating their potential for the NFL. Meanwhile, the men’s basketball team continues to impress with a strong record, adding to the excitement around Iowa State athletics.

Iowa State Cyclones Shine at 2025 NFL Draft Combine Following Record-Breaking Season

In the bustling city of Ames, Iowa, excitement is in the air as the Iowa State Cyclones gear up for an unforgettable 2025 NFL Draft Combine experience. With five talented players invited to this prestigious event from February 27 to March 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in beautiful Indianapolis, Indiana, the buzz around these athletes couldn’t be greater!

Historic 2024 Season Recap

The Cyclones are riding high off a remarkable 2024 season, which will go down in history as the best ever for the program. After finishing with an impressive overall record of 11-3, Iowa State not only captured the hearts of their fans but also marked their place in the football records by reaching the Big 12 Championship game for only the second time in the school’s history. The season wrapped up with an exciting victory over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, sending the Cyclone faithful home happy.

Star Players Invited

As the excitement builds for the Combine, the spotlight shines brightly on the five Cyclones who earned invitations. These players are poised to showcase their skills and prove why they belong at the next level:

Jayden Higgins (WR)
Jaylin Noel (WR)
Darien Porter (WR)
Jalen Travis (OL)
Malik Verdon (DB)

Among the star players, Higgins and Noel stole the show as one of the nation’s best receiving duos. Together, they dazzled fans by racking up a remarkable 159 receptions, 2,260 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns. Higgins’ performance included a stunning 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and 9 touchdowns, placing him among the top three single-season marks in Iowa State history. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-Big 12 Second-Team and recognition as an Associated Press Third-Team All-American.

Meanwhile, Noel impressed with 80 receptions for 1,194 yards and 8 touchdowns, crowning him as the Big 12 Co-Special Teams Player of the Year. His streak of 46 consecutive games with at least one reception became the third-longest active streak in the nation, a testament to his consistency and talent.

Outstanding Performances and Adaptation

Darien Porter made headlines by successfully transitioning from wide receiver to defensive back, becoming a starter in the process. His defensive prowess shone through as he recorded three interceptions throughout the season. As for Jalen Travis, the graduate transfer from Princeton, he played a vital role on the offensive line and was instrumental in protecting the quarterback, allowing only one sack in a remarkable 475 pass plays.

Malik Verdon also stood out, battling through injuries while making key contributions on defense with 76 tackles, one sack, an interception, and two forced fumbles.

All eyes were on these guys when they showcased their skills at the Reese’s Senior Bowl. While Verdon was invited, he opted not to participate due to his recovery from an injury. Nevertheless, the future looks bright for all of them as they head to the NFL Draft Combine.

Basketball Team Continues to Impress

As if the football scene wasn’t electrifying enough, the Iowa State men’s basketball team is also generating buzz. Ranked No. 10, the Cyclones recently took down UCF with a 77-65 victory, completing a fantastic regular-season sweep over the Knights. With seven players scoring eight or more points, Keshon Gilbert led the charge with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists.

The Cyclones are on fire, boasting an overall record of 19-5 and 9-4 in Big 12 Conference play. They’ll look to add another win to their record as they host Cincinnati this Saturday for a 3 p.m. CT tip-off.

With both football and basketball making waves, it is an exciting time to be a Cyclone fan. Here’s to more thrilling experiences ahead for the Iowa State athletes!