Iowa State Football: Players on NFL Teams

Oct 20, 2012; Stillwater OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys wide receiver Charlie Moore (17) is tackled by Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Jake Knott (20) during the second quarter at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Rowe-USA TODAY Sports

Four of the Iowa State Cyclones’ prospects made the NFL via the draft or free agency, and it was a surprise on how a couple of them made the teams. Regardless, it will be interesting to see when or if any of these players can make an impact on their new teams.

A.J. Klein

Once named the co-defensive player of the year in the Big 12 his junior season, scouts slightly overrated Klein’s projection as a 3rd-4th round pick. The Carolina Panthers picked him up in the 5th round, but there’s no reason for the inside linebacker to hold his head. This gives Klein a chance to make an immediate impact on special teams and could see the field depending on aging linebacker Jon Beason’s status throughout this season and after.

Carter Bykowski

This was a surprise to see Bykowski drafted in the 7th round by the San Francisco 49ers. While his draft stock rose and he had a good chance of being drafted on the third day, most mock drafts didn’t have the offensive tackle from Iowa State going anywhere. Unfortunately for Bykowski, he faces a lot of talent if he wants make the team as the 49ers are loaded at multiple positions.

Jake Knott

It’s likely that Knott wasn’t drafted over concerns with his shoulder injury. The Philadelphia Eagles gave him a chance after the draft and it may pay off after the linebacker gets back to 100 percent.

Josh Lenz

This one is hard to evaluate with a small sample size throughout Lenz’s Cyclones career. He finished with 104 receptions for 1,325 yards and 10 touchdowns. His 40-yard dash time was impressive at 4.39 during his pro day. The best bet is making the Chicago Bears’ special teams, and perhaps he can become a dangerous kickoff returner.

Hopefully we’ll be able to watch all these players at least in preseason action, and Clones Confidential wishes all of them the best of luck.