Iowa State’s offseason took a sharp turn into the spotlight this week when standout defensive back Jeremiah Cooper made waves on social media. Cooper, who recently entered the transfer portal, didn’t just announce his departure-he voiced his frustrations with the fan reaction in a way that’s sparked plenty of conversation.
On X (formerly Twitter), Cooper wrote:
**“The fans love us… then hate us.
Hope my guys ball out wherever they go.” **
It was a short message, but one that packed a punch-and not necessarily the kind he might’ve intended.
Let’s start with the facts: Cooper’s been a cornerstone of Iowa State’s defense. Over his time in Ames, he’s racked up more than 130 tackles and eight interceptions, building a reputation as both a playmaker and a leader in the Cyclones’ secondary.
He’s the kind of player coaches trust and teammates rally around. So it’s no surprise he wanted to speak his mind on the way out.
But the way he framed it? That’s where things got tricky.
The frustration from fans isn’t about a player transferring-it’s about how it’s done and what it represents. In today’s college football landscape, the transfer portal is a fact of life.
Players are moving more freely than ever, chasing better opportunities, bigger roles, and yes, bigger paydays. And they should.
No one’s denying athletes the right to make the best decision for themselves.
But fans-especially those who pour their time, money, and emotion into these programs-are allowed to feel a certain way when a player leaves. It’s not hate.
It’s disappointment. It’s confusion.
Sometimes it’s frustration when a guy who once talked about commitment and loyalty is suddenly gone. That emotional whiplash is part of the modern college football experience.
One fan summed it up bluntly in response to Cooper’s post:
**“This ain’t it, Coop.
You traded in love for a bag. That was the deal you made.”
**
It’s a sentiment that’s becoming more common in this era of NIL and constant roster turnover. And while it might sound harsh, it reflects the reality of what many fans are feeling. They’re not mad that players have options-they’re just trying to keep up with a sport that’s changing faster than ever.
Cooper’s frustration is understandable. So is the reaction from the Cyclone faithful.
This isn’t about villains or victims-it’s about a college football culture that’s still figuring itself out in real time. Players want to be supported wherever they go.
Fans want to feel like the jersey still means something. Somewhere in the middle, the truth lives.
As for Cooper, he’s a talented player who’s going to land at a strong program. His next stop will be watching closely, not just for what he brings on the field, but how he carries himself off it. And for Iowa State fans, this is just another chapter in the ever-evolving story of the portal era.
The emotions are raw, the reactions are real, and the game keeps moving. Welcome to college football in 2025.