Iowa State finds 184-Pounder in transfer Isaac Dean from Rider

Photo Courtesy of Mac Conference/Twitter from the 2025 MAC Conference Championships.

AMES, Iowa — Iowa State seems to have found its 184-pounder.

The Cyclones landed a commitment from Rider transfer Isaac Dean on Sunday. Dean announced his commitment via his personal Instagram. A redshirt junior, Dean went 25-8 last season and was an NCAA qualifier, earning the No. 7 seed.

Dean won a Mid-American Conference title (184 pounds) and picked up quality wins throughout the year, including victories over All-Americans Bennett Berge (South Dakota State), Jaxon Smith (Maryland). Plus, Reece Heller (Pittsburgh).

A New Jersey native, Dean has shown major growth in his first two seasons with Rider. His upward trajectory gives Iowa State an experienced, battle-tested option at 184, a weight class the Cyclones needed to lock down heading into next season. Dean might be the answer.

Iowa State’s work in the portal likely isn’t done. With the transfer window open until May 2, the coaching staff is expected to host additional visits in the coming weeks. One weight to keep an eye on is 197 pounds, where the Cyclones still have decisions to make. For now, landing a proven NCAA qualifier at 184 gives the roster more stability and adds another piece to the puzzle for 2025.