Iowa State added a major piece to its roster as Toledo transfer Braden Awls announced his commitment to the Cyclones, choosing ISU after entering the transfer portal earlier this offseason. The move marks a significant pickup for new head coach Jimmy Rogers’ staff, who continue to reshape the roster.
The 6-foot-0, 196-pound safety is known for his versatility and physical presence. Awls tallied 52 tackles, 0.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and five interceptions. He drew interest from multiple programs after hitting the portal, but chose the Cyclones after visiting the Indiana Hoosiers last weekend. After a visit to Ames and conversations with the coaching staff, he felt Iowa State offered the right combination of opportunity, development, and culture.
“It felt like home the second I walked in the building,” Awls said in an interview with Cyclone Fanatic. “I knew it was the right fit for me.”
Awls had high praise for Iowa State’s new head coach, Jimmy Rogers, as well. “I think Coach Rogers is as real as it gets, and is about getting the right group of players and staff to fully buy into a common goal to work and play for each other and not for themselves.”
Iowa State’s new passing game coordinator Ross Watson had a big part in why Iowa State was able to land Awls out of the portal. Watson was Awls’ position coach at Toledo the past three seasons. “Obviously, Coach Watson played a role in me coming here. He’s a great guy with a great family that I love being around. And Coach Menage and Coach Bobbit are great, and I can’t wait to get to work.”
Iowa State has been aggressive in the portal this cycle, and Awls’ commitment continues that momentum. With his addition, the Cyclones have added 21 players, and that is just the beginning. Stay tuned to Cyclone Fanatic for all of the updates.
