Becht graduates, enters the portal

By DANA BECKER

dbecker@messengernews.net

AMES — Rocco Becht has officially entered the transfer portal, while another current Iowa State quarterback has made it official he plans to remain at the school.

Becht, who set a number of Cyclone records during his career playing under Matt Campbell, posted an official message announcing his plans to enter the transfer portal after graduating from Iowa State this past weekend.

“I’ve decided to pursue new opportunities for my senior season,” Becht posted. “This decision was not taken lightly — it comes from a place of growth, purpose and belief in where my path is leading.”

Becht threw for 2,584 yards and 16 touchdowns this past season, leading the Cyclones to a record of 8-4. They opted to not compete in a bowl game, and Becht underwent surgery on his left arm.

Last year, Becht threw for 3,505 yards and 25 touchdowns as Iowa State reached the Big 12 Conference title game. They went on to post the first 11-win season in program history, besting Miami (Fla.) in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

Becht also put up over 3,100 yards as a sophomore with 23 touchdown passes. He completed 63 percent of his passes in 2023 — a career best.

During his career with the Cyclones, Becht threw for 9,274 yards with 64 touchdown passes, and had 83 TDs overall. He won 26 games, which will be the most for any quarterback in college football heading into 2026.

“Iowa State will forever be a part of who I am,” Becht said. “Thank you for every moment, every cheer and every ounce of belief you poured into me. I’ll always represent Cyclone Nation with pride.”

Connor Moberly, a backup to Becht and former Southeast Polk standout, announced on social media that “Ames has always been home. Let’s get to work,” making him the first quarterback to officially confirm plans to return under new head coach Jimmy Rogers.

Moberly has completed 5 of 11 passes for 49 yards with an interception over two seasons, adding 80 yards rushing.

Alex Manske, a former Algona standout, has not indicated yet what his future plans are. Manske played in three games as a true freshman, completing 4 of 5 passes for 28 yards with 33 yards rushing including a touchdown.