Iowa State has produced NFL talent across multiple generations. Recent Cyclones to reach the league include quarterback Brock Purdy, running back Breece Hall, defensive end Will McDonald IV, wide receiver Jayden Higgins and cornerback Darien Porter.
This guide focuses on notable Iowa State alumni and documented draft paths rather than claiming to be a live roster list. NFL teams and player status can change through free agency, waivers and trades, so the linked official team and league pages are the best place to verify a player’s current club.
Notable Cyclones in the NFL
Brock Purdy: from last pick to starting quarterback
Purdy was selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, No. 262 overall. He earned the nickname “Mr. Irrelevant” because of that draft position, then became a key part of San Francisco’s offense after getting an opportunity to play. His path is a reminder that draft slot describes where a player was selected, not how the player’s entire career will unfold.
For current season statistics and availability, consult the 49ers’ official Brock Purdy profile.
Breece Hall: a second-round pick with a lead-back role
Hall was selected by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2022 draft. At Iowa State, he was a productive back who contributed as a runner and receiver. In the NFL, his workload and production can vary with health, offensive scheme, teammate roles and game situation, so current season totals should be checked against the league record.
See the Jets’ official Breece Hall profile for current roster and statistics information.
Will McDonald IV: first-round defensive prospect
The Jets selected McDonald 15th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. His Iowa State career included production as a pass-rusher, and the first-round pick reflected the value teams place on players who can generate pressure from the edge. Sacks are an important measure, but pressures, snap counts and assignment also help explain a defensive player’s contribution.
The 2025 draft class: Jayden Higgins and Darien Porter
Jayden Higgins was selected by the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, while Darien Porter was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round. Their draft positions are historical facts; the role each player earns in the NFL depends on development, availability, scheme and competition at his position.
How Iowa State prepares players for the next level
College-to-pro development is a combination of technique, strength, film study and understanding a team’s system. Players face a jump in speed and complexity when they enter the NFL, and the path from draft selection to an established role is different for every athlete. A useful player profile looks at both the college record and the player’s professional context.
Official sources
- NFL.com: 2022 Draft Tracker — Purdy and Hall draft records.
- NFL.com: 2023 Draft Tracker — Will McDonald IV’s first-round selection.
- NFL.com: 2025 Draft Tracker — official 2025 selections including Higgins and Porter.
- Iowa State Athletics: Football — college roster, history and player news.
Updated October 26, 2026. The earlier 2024-focused “current stars” list and unsupported aggregate draft count have been replaced with a dated guide to notable Cyclones. Original URL retained.
