Iowa State wide receiver Jaylin Noel has been drafted by the Houston Texans as the 79th overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He joins fellow Cyclone receivers Xavier Hutchinson and Jayden Higgins in Houston, marking the first time since 1974 that Iowa State has had two wide receivers selected in the same draft. Noel is recognized as one of ISU's top pass catchers, finishing his career with impressive statistics and accolades, including being a two-time All-Big 12 receiver and Co-Special Teams Player of the Year.

By the Numbers
  • Noel had 80 receptions for 1,194 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns in 2024.
  • He recorded the fifth-most catches in a single season in Iowa State history (80), and ranks second all-time with 245 career receptions.
  • His 18 career touchdown catches place him fourth in program history.
State of Play
  • Noel's selection reunites him with two players from Iowa State's recent history at Houston.
  • This marks the third player from Iowa State drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft.
  • Iowa State football achieves notable recognition with two wide receivers drafted in the same year for the first time in over 50 years.
What's Next

Noel will aim to make an impact on the Texans' roster as they continue to build their receiving corps. His performance in the NFL will be closely watched, particularly in his ability to contribute to Houston's offense alongside former Cyclones. The Cyclones will look to maintain momentum with more players potentially entering the draft in coming years.

Bottom Line

Noel's successful transition to the NFL underscores Iowa State's growing reputation as a competitive program that produces talented players. With this historic draft moment, the focus shifts to how these players will perform in the professional arena, potentially changing the narrative around Iowa State football.