(Memphis, TN) – Iowa State’s top cornerback T.J. Tampa has announced that he will not be playing in the Liberty Bowl. This will break the streak of games played for the Cyclone as he had 24 straight games played for Iowa State.
Tampa was named a third-team All-American as one of the top defensive backs in the nation with only one touchdown in 414 coverage snaps this season. Tampa has two interceptions and seven pass breakups while being sixth on the team in tackles with 44. The Florida native also earned awards and honors from the Big XII after he was named to First-Team All-Big XII.
The senior says that he is going to focus on the 2024 NFL Draft where he is expected to be drafted in the second round. He is ranked 95th overall by CBS Sports and is the 12th-ranked cornerback headed to the draft.
While Tampa will not be playing in the Liberty Bowl, Malik Verdon is also questionable with a hand injury going into the competition as well. Drew Sturges is likely to start in his place just as he did against Kansas State.
Iowa State will take on Memphis in the Liberty Bowl this Friday, December 29th at 2:30 p.m.
