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Cyclones TE group seeks pass-catching threat
24 May
Summary
- Iowa State tight ends must replace significant pass-catching production.
- Tyler Fotenberry is the leading pass-catching candidate for the TE group.
- The team needs a tight end threat to elevate offensive production.
The Iowa State Cyclones football team's spring practices under new head coach Jimmy Rogers revealed critical areas for development, particularly at the tight end position. The unit, coached by Seth Hestness, features returning player Keaton Roskop, whose primary strength lies in blocking. The group's significant upside is tempered by a pressing need for a pass-catching playmaker to emerge.
Tyler Fotenberry, a transfer from Arkansas State, appears poised to fill this role, bringing continuity with quarterback Jaylen Raynor and offensive coordinator Tyler Roehl. Fotenberry's proven ability to catch passes, with 32 receptions in 2025, makes him the most experienced receiver among the tight ends. He must compensate for the departure of Benjamin Brahmer, Gabe Burkle, and Cooper Alexander to the transfer portal.
Other transfer portal additions, including Christian Greenlaw from Hampton and Ben Haulmark from Central Arkansas, have historically been utilized more as blockers. Greenlaw, raw with potential, caught 14 passes over three seasons, while Haulmark had only three receptions last season. While these players offer strong blocking for the offense's run-game focus, the team's overall offensive production requires a tight end to become a consistent threat in the passing game.
