ISU head coach Paul Rhoads announced Thursday that defensive lineman Brandon Jensen has rejoined the football team, effective immediately, according to a statement released by the ISU athletic department.

Jensen left the team in December with one year of eligibility remaining after four years with the program. His announcement came on the heels of fellow defensive lineman Austin Krick’s announcement of leaving the program earlier in December.

Jensen, a defensive tackle who started all 12 games last season and has logged playing time in 36 games, fills an immediate need for the Cyclones on the interior defensive line.

“We are obviously extremely pleased to have Brandon back with us next year,” Rhoads said in the statement. “He gives an immediate upgrade at a position we are very thin at. He also brings tremendous leadership and experience to his position group and our entire football team. Brandon is a hard worker and Big 12-tested. We are looking forward to him being a leader for us in 2014.” 

The Cyclones suffered major losses on the defensive line after last season, with Krick, Nick Kron and Jensen leaving the team along with the releases of returning starters Rodney Coe and David Irving this spring. The only interior lineman with starting experience was Devlyn Cousin before Jensen announced his return.