In a surprising twist, Iowa State football is making a minor roster adjustment right in the middle of a rough three-game losing streak. Former JUCO defensive lineman Markell Chapman has decided to leave the program and plans to enter the transfer portal this winter.
A team spokesperson confirmed Chapman’s decision to Cyclone Alert. He’s the first Cyclone planning to hit the transfer portal, which opens officially on January 2.
Chapman didn’t play a single snap for Iowa State this season. Even so, his exit might shake things up for the Cyclones down the line, especially since star defensive tackle Domonique Orange probably heads to the NFL after the year wraps up.
Immediate Impact on Iowa State
Right now, Chapman leaving doesn’t really change much for the Cyclones. He wasn’t seeing the field, sitting behind Domonique Orange, who’s been a force and looks like an early-round NFL Draft pick—maybe even All-Big 12.
Orange anchors Iowa State’s defensive line, and honestly, that left Chapman little chance to play.
Future Implications
Down the road, though, it’s hard not to wonder if losing Chapman will sting. If Orange heads off to the pros, Iowa State’s interior defensive line might feel a bit shaky.
For the 2026 season, the Cyclones expect Zaimir Hawk, Ka’Mori Moore, and B.J. Carter to lead the defensive front. Carter, though, hasn’t played at all as a true freshman, which adds some uncertainty to the mix.
Next Steps for the Cyclones
Next up, Iowa State hosts Arizona State on Saturday afternoon in Week 10. The Cyclones and Sun Devils kick off at noon CT on TNT.
This game feels huge for Iowa State. October was rough for head coach Matt Campbell and his squad. They started 5-0, then fell to 5-3 after dropping three straight games.
Challenges Ahead
Losing to Cincinnati and Colorado on the road—and dropping a home game to now No. 10 BYU—put the Cyclones in a tough spot. They lost control over their shot at the Big 12 title, a goal that’s been just out of reach for a decade under Campbell.
Campbell still sounds hopeful, saying his teams are built to peak in November. Maybe he’s right. We’ll see.
Arizona State Game Preview
Arizona State rolls into Ames on November 1 for a noon kickoff. The Sun Devils will probably play without starting quarterback Sam Leavitt.
There’s also a chance stars Jordyn Tyson and Prince Dorbah won’t suit up. That could give Iowa State a real shot to snap their losing streak and regroup.
Key Players to Watch
For Iowa State, keep an eye on these guys:
- Domonique Orange – The star defensive tackle and a real difference-maker.
- Zaimir Hawk – Expected to lead the defensive front in the coming years.
- Ka’Mori Moore – Another important piece for the Cyclones’ defensive line.
- B.J. Carter – A freshman with upside, though he hasn’t played yet.
Conclusion
Markell Chapman leaving Iowa State’s football program feels like a big deal, especially with the team on a three-game losing streak. Honestly, it’s hard not to wonder what this means for the Cyclones down the road.
They’re about to host Arizona State, so maybe this is their shot to get things back on track. If you’re curious and want the full story, check out the article on 247Sports.
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