Defensive back Ben Nikkel, a former walk-on, has signed with the Washington Commanders. He wowed teams with an impressive performance at Big 12 Pro Day in Frisco, Texas at the end of March. The McPherson, Kansas, native, started his playing career as a wide receiver at McPherson College before coming to Iowa State as a walk-on in 2021.

After redshirting his initial season, Nikkel switched over from the offensive side of the ball to the defensive backfield and saw action in all 12 games as a special teams standout in 2022.

Prior to the 2023 season, ISU head coach Matt Campbell awarded Nikkel with a scholarship and his value to the program was recognized by his teammates, who voted him a co-captain. He finished the 2024 season with 40 tackles and was second on the team with eight special teams stops. He also scooped up a blocked punt against TCU.

 Nikkel played in 24 career games and making 43 tackles.