Cyclones To Join NFL Teams

AMES, Iowa – The Iowa State football team had multiple players sign free agent and rookie camp deals with NFL teams following the draft.

Ben Nikkel – Defensive Back – Washington Commanders
Nikkel, a former walk-on, wowed teams with an impressive performance at Big 12 Pro Day in Frisco, Texas at the end of March. The McPherson, Kansas, native, started his playing career as a wide receiver at McPherson College before coming to Iowa State as a walk-on in 2021.

After redshirting his initial season, Nikkel switched over from the offensive side of the ball to the defensive backfield and saw action in all 12 games as a special teams standout in 2022.

Prior to the 2023 season, ISU head coach Matt Campbell awarded Nikkel with a scholarship and his value to the program was recognized by his teammates, who voted him a co-captain. He finished the 2024 season with 40 tackles and was second on the team with eight special teams stops. He also scooped up a blocked punt against TCU.

Nikkel played in 24 career games and made 43 tackles.

From walk-on to Washington Commander. @ben_nikkel212 has signed with the @Commanders

🌪🚨🌪 pic.twitter.com/RrywRhGKDC
— Iowa State Football (@CycloneFB) April 28, 2024

Easton Dean – Tight End – Tennessee Titans
Dean, an Oswego, Kansas, native, has been invited to Tennessee Titans Rookie minicamp. He came to Iowa State as a three-star quarterback recruit before switching to tight end.

Dean played primarily on special teams in 2021 and 2022 after redshirting his initial season in Ames. He went on to start 19 games the final two seasons and ultimately played in 50 career games, finishing with 28 career receptions for 343 yards and five receiving touchdowns.

As a senior, Dean had 16 catches and three touchdowns, including a 66-yard score against Texas.

Dean was a three-time First-Team Academic All-Big 12 selection and was an Iowa State team co-captain in 2024.

Ames to Nashville.@easton2dean received a Rookie Minicamp invite from the @Titans

🌪🚨🌪 pic.twitter.com/GAL92olhmS
— Iowa State Football (@CycloneFB) April 28, 2024

Players Mentioned

Easton Dean

Ben Nikkel

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics