Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht has informed the Iowa State coaching staff of his intent to enter the NCAA transfer portal, and Penn State fans are going to wonder if he’s the next guy.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel first reported this Saturday morning.
Becht leaves Iowa State as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in the country. His 26 career wins as a starter are the most among returning quarterbacks and would rank as the highest total in college football entering the 2026 season.
Over three seasons as the Cyclones’ starter, Becht was a model of consistency and production. He threw for 9,274 career passing yards and 64 touchdown passes, accounting for 83 total touchdowns which are totals that are expected to rank among the top five nationally next season depending on departures. Becht also set a program record by throwing at least one touchdown pass in 18 consecutive games.
Becht earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2023 and capped the 2024 season with a standout performance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He led Iowa State to a shootout victory over Miami and was named the game’s Most Valuable Player.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.So why is this significant to Penn State?
Becht’s decision to transfer comes shortly after head coach Matt Campbell took the Penn State job. While a reunion with Campbell could be an option, Becht is expected to explore all opportunities.
Penn State currently has redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer, who filled in for Drew Allar after Allar suffered a season-ending injury against Northwestern. Campbell recruited Grunkemeyer during his time at Iowa State, offering him in 2022.
