Although there has been exciting news about commitment for the Wisconsin football team recently, it’s important to remember that many players will not return in 2025. The Badgers have been significantly affected by departures due to the transfer portal.
In a surprising turn of events, nearly the entire 2023 recruiting class has left. Before the weekend began, 11 players from that class had declared their intent to leave Madison. On Saturday, defensive tackle Jamel Howard joined their ranks, bringing the total to 12 out of 15 signees from 2023 who are no longer with the team. It’s hard to believe:
“After meaningful discussions with my family and staff, I’m thankful to the University of Wisconsin for aiding my growth as both a player and person. Therefore, I’m entering the transfer portal with three years of eligibility.”
— Jamel Howard Jr (@HJ_Jr58) December 21, 2024
Before Howard’s announcement, offensive lineman James Durand, a former 4-star recruit, was the latest player from the 2023 class to enter the portal. With 12 players departed, only Tucker Ashcraft, Tyler Jansey, and Christian Alliego remain from the original group of 15.
Roster turnover is expected in any program, particularly due to the current state of the transfer portal. However, it must be concerning for Coach Fickell that his first full recruiting class at Wisconsin has dwindled down to just three players.
This is not the outcome he wishes to see for his 2024 recruits, and he certainly hopes his 2025 signees will feel committed to staying. As he looks ahead, Fickell faces significant pressure to improve the program after two disappointing seasons.
Last fall, the Badgers finished with a 5-7 record, breaking a 22-year bowl streak. Although the team could have participated in a bowl game despite this record, they opted out of the Independence Bowl. It was a tough season, and the hope remains that Fickell can make a turnaround. The loss of the majority of the 2023 recruits, however, raises serious concerns at this point in the offseason.
