Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht announced Saturday that he will enter the transfer portal, ending a three-year run as the Cyclones’ starting quarterback.
Becht, who will have one year of eligibility remaining, started 42 games during his career at Iowa State. In 2025, he completed 205 of 339 passes for 2,584 yards with 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions over 12 games.
He suffered a shoulder injury late in the season and would have missed a bowl game had the Cyclones participated in the postseason. Iowa State opted out after coach Matt Campbell departed for Penn State Nittany Lions.
Iowa State hired Jimmy Rogers as its new coach shortly after Campbell’s exit. Becht said the decision to leave came after careful reflection.
“I’ve had meaningful conversations with coach Jimmy Rogers, and I’m confident he will elevate this program to new heights,” Becht said. “But after deep consideration, I’ve decided to pursue new opportunities for my senior season.”
The son of former NFL tight end Anthony Becht, Becht finished his Cyclone career with 9,274 passing yards and 64 touchdowns. He redshirted in 2022 and underwent surgery on his non-throwing shoulder for a torn labrum, an injury he managed for much of 2025. He is expected to be fully recovered for the 2026 season.
Iowa State went 8-4 in 2025 after an 11-3 campaign and a Big 12 title game appearance in 2024, falling to the Arizona State Sun Devils.
Becht’s move adds to a growing quarterback market. Josh Hoover entered the portal Friday, joining experienced passers such as Brendan Sorsby, Dylan Raiola, DJ Lagway, and Beau Pribula. Penn State could be as a potential landing spot as well.
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