Iowa State football took another hit to its running back depth.
Redshirt freshman Jayden Jackson is no longer with the team, a spokesperson for the program confirmed to the Des Moines Register on Monday, May 4.
Jackson posted an Instagram story, which is only visible for 24 hours, regarding his recent departure from the program. His name and personal bio page were removed from the official team roster.
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound running back was a standout during the Cyclones’ spring showcase. He shined during the scrimmage portion, making the most out of his snaps in the running back rotation and providing a couple of big plays.
“He did a solid job,” Iowa State coach Jimmy Rogers said after the April 25 spring showcase. “I mean, he hasn’t done much. He’s got to consistently grow and do things off the field that are right and follow through with things and grow mentally in order to continue to get reps.”
Jackson didn’t appear in any games as a true freshman last season. After choosing to return for the start of the Rogers era, it seemed like 2026 would present an opportunity for Jackson to see some action in the running back rotation. Now, his collegiate debut will have to take place elsewhere.
With Jackson gone, expect to see more Aiden Flora and Bowling Green transfer Cameron Pettaway in the backfield. Oregon State transfer Salahdin Allah also figures to be in the mix, but he did not participate in the spring showcase and was spotted on the sidelines using a knee scooter and a cast on his lower right leg. Allah’s exact injury diagnosis and timetable for a potential return were not disclosed.
Eugene Rapay covers Iowa State athletics for the Des Moines Register. Contact Eugene at erapay@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @erapay5.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Spring standout Jayden Jackson no longer with Iowa State football
Reporting by Eugene Rapay, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
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