Former Ankeny star Jamison Patton is among the more than 40 Iowa State football players who have entered the transfer portal following the departure of longtime head coach Matt Campbell earlier this month.
Patton announced his decision via Twitter on Sunday.
“Thank you to coach Campbell and the entire staff for believing in me and investing so much time and energy into me, providing me with the wisdom and tools that I will use for the rest of my life,” Patton tweeted. “I will cherish the memories and relationships made in Ames for a lifetime.”
Patton, a junior defensive back, helped the Cyclones to an 8-4 record. He started the first nine games at free safety before suffering a season-ending injury.
Patton placed fourth on the squad with 48 tackles, which included 29 solo stops. He had two interceptions, which tied for the team lead, and broke up three other passes.
Nearly all of Iowa State’s returning starters, including Patton, decided to leave after Campbell signed an eight-year deal on Dec. 5 to become the new head coach at Penn State. Campbell spent the last 10 years in Ames, compiling an overall record of 72-55.
“After a lot of prayer, reflection and conversations, I have decided to enter the transfer portal for my final year of eligibility,” Patton tweeted.
However, several notable players–including place-kicker Kyle Konrardy–have announced that they will remain in Ames and play for new head coach Jimmy Rogers, who was hired on the same day that Campbell left.
Former Ankeny Centennial standouts Easton Miller and Connor Welsch have both indicated that they will stay at Iowa State. And so will former Ankeny lineman Braden Simonsen.
Miller, a redshirt sophomore running back, played in all 12 games this season. He carried the ball four times for 23 yards.
Miller was also a key player on special teams. He made four solo tackles and assisted on two others.
Miller said he’s excited about the return of assistant coach Tyler Roehl, who was hired by Rogers to become the Cyclones’ offensive coordinator. Roehl previously served as assistant head coach and running backs coach for Iowa State during its record-setting 2024 season before leaving to join the Detroit Lions as the tight ends coach.
“I was pretty confident with coach Roehl coming back into the program to run the offense,” Miller said. “I thought this could be a great chance for me to excel at the University of Iowa State.”
Welsch, a redshirt freshman defensive back, saw action in nine games on special teams. He contributed three solo tackles.
Welsch is also hoping to earn some more playing time for the Cyclones.
“I plan on staying at Iowa State,” Welsch said.
Simonsen, a redshirt junior offensive lineman, will continue to wear the cardinal and gold colors as well.
“I’m looking forward to getting to play for coach Rogers and his staff and see what the future holds for Cyclone football,” he said. “Loyal Sons Forever True.”
