The NFL Scouting Combine is where prospects solidify their draft stock, showcasing their skills in front of scouts, coaches, and front-office executives. Iowa State offensive tackle Jalen Travis used the opportunity to demonstrate his physical abilities and leadership of his former quarterback, sophomore Rocco Becht.
Jalen Travis Praises Rocco Becht’s Leadership
During a press conference during the NFL Scouting Combine, Travis was asked about Iowa State’s resilience in late-game situations. He wasted no time in crediting Becht’s poise and command of the huddle.
On X, reporter Scott Dochterman posted a video featuring Travis speaking about Becht’s impact on the Cyclones.
Iowa State tackle Jalen Travis, who graduated from Princeton before heading to Ames, breaks down why the Cyclones thrived under Rocco Becht’s leadership in late-game situations. pic.twitter.com/iSwQXlWxgB
— Scott Dochterman (@ScottDochterman) March 1, 2025
The offensive tackle was asked, “What was it about Rocco Beck that enabled [Iowa State] to really pull those games out?”
He replied, “He’s a dog. He’s the leader of that room; he’s the leader of that team. And he gives us confidence. We give this man some time; he’s going to make a play. It’s his arm or his feet. And I think that’s going to bring a lot of confidence to him. So we decided to execute those big moments. Especially going into those moments. Don’t lose confidence.”
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Travis’ words made it clear that he viewed Becht as a pivotal figure in Iowa State’s success last season. Standing tall with a solid three-year starting resume, Jalen Travis possesses the frame and length that NFL teams covet in offensive tackles.
However, like many taller linemen, he faces challenges in maintaining leverage and adjusting quickly in tight spaces. His pad level often dictates his success, and when it remains too high, he struggles to anchor against power rushers.
Despite this, his wingspan and natural strength allow him to compensate, particularly when he effectively times his punches.
Travis’ average foot quickness is somewhat masked by his ability to use his length to his advantage. While he displays solid power on down blocks, he experiences difficulties as a man blocker due to inconsistent hand placement and leverage issues.
At the NFL Combine, Travis showcased his potential, participating in various drills and displaying his ability to compete at a high level. However, his biggest moment may have come off the field when he spoke candidly about the leadership of Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht.
Jalen Travis’s NFL Combine Performance
Travis participated in on-field drills at the combine on Sunday, March 2, where scouts evaluated his athleticism and technique. For a player whose NFL potential is still being defined, every rep mattered.
Despite his perceived limitations, he demonstrated enough promise to earn further interest from teams seeking offensive line depth. His ability to play multiple positions along the line could make him a valuable asset as a swing tackle at the next level.
A native of Minneapolis, Minn., and a graduate of DeLaSalle High School, Travis took an unconventional route to the NFL Combine. He initially played four seasons at Princeton, where he earned a degree in anthropology before transferring to Iowa State.
The move paid off, as he secured All-Big 12 honorable mention recognition and an invitation to both the Senior Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine.
Throughout the week in Indianapolis, Travis engaged in conversations with multiple NFL teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cincinnati Bengals. His meetings with these franchises allowed him to showcase his football IQ, work ethic, and locker-room presence.
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“I like to tell teams you’re getting a humble, dedicated worker,” Travis said. “Someone who’s going to show up every single day and be the same Jalen. Someone who is going to contribute to your organization Day One both as an on-the-field guy but also a locker room guy.”
Travis’ remarks reinforced the impression that he brings more than just physical ability to the table—he offers reliability, a strong work ethic, and a team-first mentality that resonates with NFL evaluators.
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