Ames, Iowa, February 5, 2026
Iowa State football has announced the signing of 12 high school athletes during the recent February signing period. This noteworthy class includes a standout from Cypress Falls High School in Houston, showcasing the dedication and talent of young athletes. The commitment of these players underlines not only their hard work but also reflects a strong connection to their local communities. As they embark on their journey to collegiate athletics, these young men represent the opportunities available through discipline and perseverance in high school sports.
Ames, Iowa – The spirit of competition and dedication resonated nationwide this week as college football programs solidified their future rosters. While the spotlight shone brightly on commitments across the country, Iowa State football recently announced the signing of 12 promising high school athletes for their class of 2026, a move that offers a powerful testament to the opportunities awaiting disciplined young men, including those working tirelessly on the gridirons of Houston, TX. This February signing period on February 4, 2026, saw a significant infusion of talent for the Cyclones, with a local star from Cypress Falls High School among the notable additions.
The announcement is particularly inspiring for the Houston TX high school football community, showcasing that hard work, teamwork, and personal responsibility can open doors to collegiate opportunities at the highest levels. These 12 new signees, joining nine others from an original December signing class, underscore the continuous journey of growth and development that defines prep sports.
Houston Talent Heads to Ames: Iowa State Secures Local Star and 11 Others
The commitment of 12 high school athletes to Iowa State’s 2026 class highlights the dedication and opportunity awaiting young football stars nationwide, including those striving for greatness in Houston.
Houston’s Own Heading North: Gabriel Wilson’s Journey
The most exciting news for local fans is the commitment of running back Gabriel Wilson from Cypress Falls High School in Houston. Wilson’s path to Ames highlights perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. He initially committed to New Mexico before ultimately choosing Iowa State. During his high school career, Wilson demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication, rushing for over 2,000 yards and scoring 19 touchdowns. In his senior season alone, he accumulated 1,113 rushing yards on 147 carries, averaging an impressive 7.6 yards per carry, and scored 13 rushing touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, catching 18 passes for 185 yards and a touchdown. This level of production and commitment is a direct result of the discipline instilled in Houston TX high school football programs. Wilson’s journey serves as a powerful example of how consistent effort and the embrace of personal responsibility can lead to significant opportunities.
Texas Talent Beyond Houston: A Strong Showing
Beyond Houston, the state of Texas is well represented in Iowa State’s February 2026 signing class. Amiri Barnes, a talented cornerback from Cypress Lakes High School in Katy, Texas, also committed to the Cyclones. Barnes earned first-team all-district honors as a defensive back in his senior year, recording 22 tackles, four tackles for loss, and two interceptions, showcasing his defensive prowess. His versatility was also evident as he was a second-team wide receiver. These achievements highlight the robust football talent cultivated within the broader Texas region. Additionally, linebacker Matthew McClain from Frisco, Texas, and wide receiver Jamal Polite Jr. from Killeen, Texas, are also part of this 12-player signing class. Their inclusion further solidifies Texas as a prime source of collegiate football talent, emphasizing the competitive environments and high standards of Texas prep sports.
The Collegiate Path: Discipline and Development
For all 12 signees, including Houston’s Gabriel Wilson, committing to a Division I program like Iowa State marks the beginning of a new chapter that demands even greater discipline and commitment. The journey from high school standout to college athlete requires unwavering dedication to both athletic development and academic excellence. These young men are entering an environment where teamwork, rigorous training, and personal responsibility are paramount. Iowa State’s program, under Head Coach Jimmy Rogers, aims to foster not only elite athletes but also well-rounded individuals prepared for challenges on and off the field. The pursuit of a college football career is a testament to the character built through years of competition and the invaluable lessons learned through sports.
Community Pride and Local Investment
The success of athletes like Gabriel Wilson reflects positively on the entire Houston TX high school football community. It highlights the strength of local athletic programs, the dedication of coaches, and the unwavering support of families and fans. When a local athlete signs with a major college program, it inspires younger generations and strengthens school pride. This engagement fosters a vibrant local sports culture, where community turnout at games and support for athletic programs become integral to developing future talent. Local sponsorships and community investment play a vital role in providing the resources and opportunities necessary for these athletes to thrive, contributing to a strong sense of local identity and collective achievement.
Iowa State’s Future Class: A National Picture
The 12 high school athletes announced during the February signing period on February 4, 2026, contribute significantly to Iowa State’s 2026 recruiting class. These additions are crucial for the program’s long-term success, especially considering changes in coaching staff. Head Coach Jimmy Rogers and his staff have been actively building the roster, securing commitments from a diverse group of players from various states. This comprehensive approach to recruiting ensures a pipeline of talent, illustrating the ongoing strategic efforts required to maintain a competitive collegiate football program. The collective strength of this class is expected to bolster Iowa State’s future performance on the national stage, representing the culmination of scouting, evaluation, and relationship-building across the country.
The commitment of Gabriel Wilson and other talented athletes to Iowa State is a testament to the powerful combination of individual dedication and strong community support. These signings offer an inspiring glimpse into the opportunities available through hard work and perseverance in high school signings and college football recruiting. We encourage all Houston student-athletes to continue striving for their dreams, knowing that their efforts are recognized and celebrated. Support your local Houston TX high school football programs by attending games and following HEREHouston.com for more stories of local athletic achievement and inspiration.
Iowa State 2026 February Signing Class Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of High School Signings | 12 |
| Class Year | 2026 |
| Sport | Football |
| Date of Announcement | February 4, 2026 |
| Notable Houston Area Signee | Gabriel Wilson (RB, Cypress Falls HS, Houston, TX) |
| Notable Katy Area Signee | Amiri Barnes (CB, Cypress Lakes HS, Katy, TX) |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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