Iowa State football has added a promising defender to its 2026 recruiting class, securing a verbal commitment from three-star safety Bryson Williams.
The Omaha Westside product announced his pledge on June 18, giving the Cyclones a versatile, high-upside addition to their secondary of the future.
Williams, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs approximately 175 pounds, is regarded as one of the top overall players in Nebraska for the Class of 2026. Rated inside the national top 1,300 prospects by 247Sports, Williams has drawn attention for both his frame and athleticism. A track athlete with sub-11-second 100-meter speed, he brings impressive range and closing burst to the back end of the defense.
The Omaha native took an official visit to Ames on June 13, part of a busy June schedule that included stops at Washington State and Vanderbilt. Iowa State made a strong impression during his visit, particularly through the coaching staff’s focus on fit and development. Williams cited the Cyclones’ defensive vision and the comfort level he felt with the program as key reasons for his decision to commit.
For Iowa State, the addition of Williams addresses a long-term need in the secondary. His frame and length allow him to match up against taller Big 12 receivers, and his athletic traits make him an ideal candidate to develop into a coverage safety with range. While he will need to continue filling out his frame and refining his technique, the physical tools and upside are evident.
This also marks another strategic win for Iowa State in the Midwest recruiting footprint. Nebraska has become an increasingly competitive battleground in recent cycles, and pulling a high-level talent out of Omaha sends a strong signal for the future.
As the Cyclones look to retool their defense in the coming years, Bryson Williams stands out as a foundational piece for Matt Campbell’s staff. His development will be closely watched as he continues to rise through the high school ranks, with potential to become a difference-maker once he arrives in Ames.
