Iowa State Stung by Flip of Four-Star QB to Alabama

In a major recruiting setback, Iowa State has watched four-star quarterback Jett Thomalla flip his commitment to Alabama, a brutal blow to Matt Campbell’s 2026 class.

Thomalla, a four-star signal caller from Omaha, Nebraska, was the crown jewel of Campbell’s class, and the Cyclones will now need to jump back into the field, searching for the quarterback of the future.

Initially pledged in April, Thomalla—a 6’4″, 205-pound Elite 11 finalist from Omaha Millard South—was part of a high-profile class that included Iowa, Missouri, Washington State, and more in his recruitment.

On Tuesday, he made it official: “All glory to God, Roll Tide!!” he remarked after flipping to Alabama.

Losing a high-ceiling QB flips the Cyclones’ early-class blueprint upside down. Thomalla was expected to secure early spring enrollments and push for early playing time in the near future. Thomalla’s flip to a blue-blood SEC powerhouse sends a message, and competing with Alabama for quarterback talent remains an uphill fight.

Now, Iowa State must regroup and re-engage with other targets, leaning on late commits and portal options. Despite the gut punch, Iowa State can pitch early action (depending on Rocco Becht’s NFL outlook) and Matt Campbell’s development track to uncommitted recruits.

Losing Jett Thomalla to Alabama is a significant recruiting loss for Iowa State and a stark reminder of the SEC’s depth of recruiting sway. Keeping pace now means pivoting fast and selling a vision that rivals even Tuscaloosa.