Iowa State Cyclones Double 2027 Recruiting Class in One Week

It has been a massive week for Iowa State football. From May 30 to June 6, the Cyclones doubled the size of their 2027 recruiting class, growing from seven commitments to 14. Head coach Matt Campbell and his staff secured talent from across the country, beating out major programs and bringing high-character, versatile athletes to Ames.

These young men are choosing the heartland, drawn by the program's culture and the opportunity to develop. For Iowa fans, this surge in commitments proves that the Cyclones remain a compelling destination for top talent, even against programs with larger national profiles.

A Focus on Versatility and Work Ethic

This recruiting class reflects a clear philosophy. The coaching staff is targeting multi-sport athletes and two-way high school players who know how to put in the work. Several of the new commits played on both sides of the ball in high school, showing the kind of grit and toughness that resonates with Iowa values.

Here is a breakdown of the seven newest Cyclones.

Drew Aagesen, Offensive Line

Hailing from Goodrich, Michigan, Aagesen pledged his commitment on May 30. While he will play offensive line for the Cyclones, his high school tape shows a relentless competitor. During his junior year, he racked up 11 sacks and 21 tackles for loss on defense, and even contributed at tight end. Ranked as the No. 21 prospect in Michigan, Aagesen chose Iowa State over Michigan State and Wisconsin after the Cyclones gave him his first power-conference offer in March.

Jordan Crider, Safety

Crider announced his commitment on May 31. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound safety from Middletown, Ohio, is ranked as the nation's No. 114 safety for the 2027 class. Despite state transfer rules limiting him to just five games last season, Crider proved his playmaking ability with four interceptions and 18 tackles. He also added three receiving touchdowns on offense, ultimately picking the Cyclones over offers from Kentucky and Temple.

Jason Wooden, Athlete

Wooden, from Frisco, Texas, joined the class following an official visit in early June. He played wide receiver last season, hauling in 25 catches and two touchdowns, but he is embracing a move to defense at Iowa State. That transition was key to his commitment. While programs like Richmond and North Dakota wanted him to stay at receiver, the Cyclones gave him the opportunity he was looking for on the defensive side of the ball.

Cash Hollingshead, Quarterback

The Salem Hills, Utah, native committed after a standout performance at a camp in Ames. The 6-foot-3 quarterback threw for over 1,000 yards last season and maintained an outstanding 15-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Hollingshead noted that he feels his skill set is a perfect fit for the offensive system run by coordinator Tyler Roehl, showing a strong alignment between player and program.

Joey Massey, Tight End

Massey flipped his commitment from Central Michigan to Iowa State on June 5. The 233-pound athlete from Green Bay, Wisconsin, brings a blue-collar approach to the game. As a junior, he recorded 352 receiving yards and three touchdowns on offense, while also delivering 48 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and four sacks on defense. His willingness to do the dirty work on both sides of the ball makes him a natural fit for the Cyclones.

Josh McCarthy, Linebacker

McCarthy accepted his offer on June 5 after working for months to earn a Power-4 opportunity. The Farmington, Missouri, product put up massive numbers as a junior, including 119 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks. He is not just a defensive weapon, though. McCarthy also caught nine touchdown passes and totaled 507 receiving yards, proving his elite athletic ability.

Blake Moser, Wide Receiver

The latest addition to the class, Moser committed on June 6. A three-star prospect from Lake Stevens, Washington, Moser accounted for over 3,400 total yards and 55 combined touchdowns last season as a high school quarterback. Iowa State plans to transition his elite speed to wide receiver, adding another dynamic playmaker to the roster.

Building a Foundation in Ames

This week-long recruiting surge shows that the Iowa State program is moving in the right direction. Players are responding to the program's vision, choosing Ames over coastal and regional programs alike. With 14 commitments now in the fold for 2027, the Cyclones are building a strong foundation based on hard work, versatility, and a commitment to winning.