AMES – Last season, Iowa State’s football team often found itself wishing for a reliable third option to back up stars Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. Despite the challenge, these two dynamic players frequently managed to outmaneuver defenses, pulling off jaw-dropping catches and turning ordinary plays into significant gains.
Iowa State made headlines by being the only FBS-level team to boast two receivers who achieved more than 1,000 yards each last season. Higgins and Noel were neck and neck in performance, collectively managing 167 receptions, 2,377 yards, and 17 touchdowns, accounting for a hefty share of the Cyclones’ stats. Now, as both set their sights on the NFL, Iowa State finds itself in a phase of offensive reinvention, searching for fresh opportunities to fuel their quarterback, Rocco Becht. The inclusion of new talents like Chase Sowell from East Carolina and Xavier Townsend from UCF at the wide receiver spot signifies a promising start. Additionally, there’s optimism that the tight ends could bring a much-needed edge in 2025.
The previous season was riddled with injuries, especially for the tight end camp. Ben Brahmer, Tyler Moore, and Cooper Alexander all faced major setbacks, significantly hampering their play. However, with the team’s return to full health, expectations are soaring for this experienced group as fall approaches.
Offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser expressed his enthusiasm about the potential of the tight ends. “We believe this group could be truly special with the depth we have,” he mentioned, highlighting that all are fit and ready for spring training. He added, “They’ve become pros. These guys topped the team GPA, so they clearly excel off the field as well.”
Throughout the challenges of last season, tight end Gabe Burkle managed to stay healthy. Renowned for his blocking and special teams contributions, he emerged as a crucial player, filling in gaps in the receiving game with 26 catches for 296 yards and a touchdown. Notably, he scored during the thrilling 42-41 triumph over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl—a memorable career-first for Burkle, who is eager to build on his achievements.
Burkle shared his approach to growth in the game, saying, “I’ve been analyzing a lot of footage to refine my skills. The experience I gained has bolstered my confidence and defensive awareness.”
Freshman phenom Ben Brahmer was another standout, already marked as one to watch. Despite sustaining an injury during a win over UCF, which limited his play to a brief return in the Big 12 title game against Arizona State, he showed his potential with 10 receptions, 179 yards, and a touchdown.
Unfortunately, neither Moore nor Alexander saw much action post-injury last season. Moore faced a season-ending knee injury against Kansas, and Alexander was sidelined early after the North Dakota victory.
Fortunately, the team still benefits from the presence of Tripp Walsh, a dedicated walk-on tight end who saw significant action last season.
Moore optimistically reflected on the tight end lineup, stating, “Our group’s diverse skills mesh beautifully. We can all contribute on the field—separately or together.”
Both the team and its supporters are eager to see these talents flourish this season, with hopes pinned on fewer injuries. The blend of on-field prowess and experienced leadership makes the tight ends a crucial component of Iowa State’s strategy.
Coach Matt Campbell encapsulated the team’s spirit, saying, “With a healthy squad, we’re confident about the potential. If people underrate us, that’s okay, but this group has the makings of something extraordinary next year—perhaps the best we’ve ever had.”
Eugene Rapay comprehensively covers Iowa State sports for the Des Moines Register. Feel free to reach out to him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter at @erapay5.
