Gunnerson’s work ethic wasn’t the only thing that caught the attention of Campbell and his staff. His 6-foot-2, 220-pound frame also opened up some eyes, especially when he put on Iowa State’s new black uniforms the Cyclones’ debuted for their game against West Virginia.
Then, when Iowa State’s managers had their annual game against the program’s trainers, Gunnerson took the field at quarterback and shined in front of some of Iowa State’s coaches and players who were watching.
“He threw for like four or five touchdown passes and then ran the ball (well),” Menke said. “I guess that was when a lot of the coaches said, ‘He’s an athlete — we need him.’”
So Gunnerson gave up his job as a manager and joined the team as a walk-on. He’s listed as a tight end, but Campbell said the Cyclones are still looking for ways to use him. They’ve even contemplated putting him with Rasheed again on the D-line.
