In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Iowa State quarterback Alex Manske has announced his decision to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, marking yet another significant departure for the Cyclones amidst a tumultuous coaching transition. But here's where it gets even more intriguing: Manske, once hailed as a cornerstone of Iowa State's future, is now seeking a fresh start elsewhere, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what this means for the program's trajectory. And this is the part most people miss—how coaching changes can ripple through a team, reshaping its identity and future prospects.
Manske, a highly touted in-state recruit and four-star prospect from Algona, Iowa, was ranked as a Top-300 overall player in the 2025 recruiting cycle. According to Rivals’ Industry Ranking, he was also the No. 20 quarterback in his class and the second-highest rated player from Iowa, trailing only tight end Thomas Meyer. His decision to leave Iowa State comes on the heels of a coaching shakeup, with former head coach Matt Campbell departing for Penn State and Jimmy Rogers stepping in to fill the void. This transition has already seen nearly thirty players enter the transfer portal, with Manske’s name now added to the growing list.
In a heartfelt social media post on Friday, Manske reflected on his time at Iowa State, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he’s had. ‘These past few weeks have been crazy and nothing any of us expected,’ he wrote. ‘I’d like to thank God, Coach Campbell, the entire staff, Iowa State University, the fans, and my teammates for making my time in Ames so special.’ He also acknowledged the support of his family and friends, emphasizing their role in his decision. ‘After much consideration and many conversations with my family, I have made the decision to enter the transfer portal with four years of remaining eligibility,’ Manske added.
As a true freshman, Manske served as a reserve quarterback behind starter Rocco Becht, appearing in three games. He showcased his potential by completing four of five pass attempts for 28 yards, while also rushing seven times for 33 yards and a touchdown. His departure raises questions about Iowa State’s quarterback depth and the program’s ability to retain top talent during this period of transition.
But here’s the controversial part: Is Manske’s decision a reflection of deeper issues within the program, or simply a young athlete seeking the best opportunity for his career? Some argue that coaching changes inevitably lead to player departures, while others believe this exodus signals systemic challenges at Iowa State. What do you think? Is Manske making the right move, or is this a missed opportunity for both him and the Cyclones?
With the transfer portal window opening on January 2nd, Manske’s name will officially be added to the list of players seeking new homes. To stay updated on his journey and other high-profile transfers, be sure to follow On3’s Transfer Portalwire, as well as their Instagram and Twitter accounts. This story is far from over, and the implications for Iowa State and Manske’s future are just beginning to unfold. What’s your take on this latest development? Let us know in the comments below!
