AMES, Iowa – Iowa State tight end Benjamin Brahmer has been named a semifinalist for the John Mackey Award, given annually to college football’s outstanding tight end. The eight Mackey Award semifinalists include four Big 12 tight ends.

Brahmer, a junior out of Pierce, Nebraska, is having a career year as the Cyclones’ leading pass catcher. With two games left in the regular season, Brahmer has 33 receptions for 388 yards and a team-best five touchdown receptions. Brahmer also has two two-point conversion scores, which don’t count in his stats.

Brahmer has three games this season with at least five receptions, including a five catch, 75-yard performance against nationally-ranked BYU. He had a season-high seven receptions and scored two touchdowns in a win against South Dakota.

The last time a tight end led the Cyclones in receptions was Collin Franklin in 2010 (54 receptions).

2025 Mackey Award Semifinalists

Benjamin Brahmer, Iowa State

Dallen Bentley, Utah

Justin Joly, NC State

Tanner Koziol, Houston

Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt

Michael Trigg, Baylor

Dae’Quan Wright, Ole Miss