Iowa State undrafted free agents tracker: Cyclones who signed after 2024 NFL Draft

Des Moines Register

The 2024 NFL Draft is over, and Iowa State football had one player selected in the three-day, seven-round event.

Cyclones star cornerback T.J. Tampa went to the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round, but none of his teammates were chosen. It was a light draft class for ISU, but that doesn't mean the team's eligible players won't end up on an NFL roster.

Undrafted free agents (UDFAs) are now eligible to sign with organizations, so follow along below to see if any Cyclones draw interest.

Iowa State Cyclones undrafted free agents

Ben Nikkel, DB, Washington Commanders

Nikkel, a former walk-on from McPherson, Kansas, started his playing career as a wide receiver at McPherson College before coming to Iowa State as a walk-on in 2021.

After redshirting his initial season, Nikkel switched from the offensive side of the ball to the defensive backfield and saw action in all 12 games as a special-teams standout in 2022.

Prior to the 2023 season, coach Matt Campbell awarded Nikkel with a scholarship and his value to the program was recognized by his teammates, who voted him a co-captain. He finished the 2023 season with 40 tackles and was second on the team with eight special teams stops. He also scooped up a blocked punt against TCU.

Nikkel played in 24 career games and making 43 tackles.

Easton Dean, TE, invited to Tennessee Titans rookie minicamp

Dean, a Oswego, Kansas, native, came to Iowa State as a three-star quarterback recruit before switching to tight end.

Dean played primarily on special teams in 2021 and 2022 after redshirting his initial season in Ames. He went on to start 19 games the final two seasons and ultimately played in 50 career games, finishing with 28 career receptions for 343 yards and five receiving touchdowns.

As a senior, Dean had 16 catches and three touchdowns, including a 66-yard score against Texas.

Dean was a three-time first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection and was an Iowa State team co-captain in 2024.

Iowa State Cyclones NFL Draft picks 2024

  • Round 4, Pick 130: T.J. Tampa, CB, Baltimore Ravens

The Iowa State sports information department contributed to this report.

Gus Martin is a Digital Producer/Content Director for The Des Moines Register. Follow him on X at @GusMartin_DMR.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State undrafted free agents tracker: UDFAs after NFL Draft 2024

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