Iowa State loses another contributing receiver to the transfer portal

Randy Peterson, Des Moines Register
·2 min read
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Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy’s Cheez-It Bowl passing targets took another hit Monday. A day after the Cyclones’ fifth bowl game in a row was announced, receiver Joseph Scates entered the transfer portal.

In a lengthy Twitter posting, Scates wrote:

Joe Scates became Iowa State's second receiver with significant statistics to enter the transfer portal.
Joe Scates became Iowa State's second receiver with significant statistics to enter the transfer portal.

“I appreciate all the love and support Cyclone Nation has given me. I know I’m not perfect. In fact, no one is. You guys took me in and gave me a chance when you didn’t have to. “I want to thank coach (Matt) Campbell for all of the lessons you’ve taught me on and off the field. ... “I want to thank coach Tom Manning and coach Nate Scheelhaase for all the constructive criticism and best coaching I’ve had by far, and I want to thank my teammates for just being there for me throughout my hard times, trials and tribulations. ... “No matter where I am at in life, I know I’m rocking with Cyclone Nation forever. ... “With that said, I am officially entering my name into the transfer portal.”

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And with that said, combined with Tarique Milton entering the portal last week, Purdy’s pass-throwing options for the Dec. 29 game at Camping World Stadium in Orlando have been reduced by players who combined for 23 receptions for 423 yards and four touchdowns.

Iowa State receiver Tarique Milton (1) has entered the transfer portal.
Iowa State receiver Tarique Milton (1) has entered the transfer portal.

Players choosing not to play in the bowl game would further reduce Purdy targets. Campbell told reporters Sunday that he might know “in the next five or six days, but I would say the bulk or majority of our team will be prepared to go to this bowl game and play.”

More: Peterson: Matt Campbell and Iowa State against Clemson is a very intriguing bowl matchup

Reasons for transferring before the bowl game could include the approaching Dec. 15 national letter of intent signing day, and the emergence of Jaylin Noel, a true freshman who caught 20 passes for 114 yards during the last four games.

Iowa State columnist Randy Peterson has been writing for the Des Moines Register for parts of six decades. Reach him at rpeterson@dmreg.com, 515-284-8132, and on Twitter at @RandyPete.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State's Joe Scates, Tarique Milton have entered transfer portal