O’Rien Vance will return to Iowa State for 2022 season

Former Cedar Rapids Washington prep wants another shot after injury-filled 2021

Rob Gray

Jan. 6, 2022 2:09 pm, Updated: Jan. 6, 2022 2:56 pm

Iowa State linebacker O'Rien Vance, celebrating sacking Northern Iowa quarterback Will McElvain on Sept. 4, will return for another season. (Associated Press)

AMES — Injuries made the 2021 season a mostly lost one for Iowa State linebacker and former Cedar Rapids Washington star O’Rien Vance.

Thursday, Vance announced he’d be reclaiming that time — and returning to play for the Cyclones in 2022.

Vance revealed the news Thursday on his Instagram account.

“This past season has been a true test with injuries holding me back from my full potential,” Vance said in a post before thanking family, teammates and staff in helping him through a difficult 2021. “With lots of self-reflecting and conversations with my coaches and family, I have decided to come back one more time.

“(Number) 34 isn’t done yet.”

Vance notched nine of his 36 tackles this season in the Cyclones’ 20-13 Cheez-It Bowl loss to No. 19 Clemson. He’ll be the lone returner at linebacker for ISU with starting experience and has 10 sacks, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble in his career.

Vance also earned defensive MVP honors in the Cyclones’ 34-17 Fiesta Bowl win over Oregon two seasons ago.

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