Luke Fickell and the Wisconsin Badgers faced a challenging 5-7 season, and now they find themselves navigating the turbulent waters of the transfer portal. With over two dozen players opting to leave, the Badgers are dealing with significant roster changes that could impact their future. While Wisconsin has managed to bring in some new talent, the losses they’ve incurred are equally noteworthy.
Significant losses for Wisconsin
The transfer portal has become a critical element in college football, allowing players to seek new opportunities. For Wisconsin, this winter has been particularly tough, as they bid farewell to some key contributors. Let’s take a closer look at three players whose departures will be felt deeply by the Badgers.
#1 Xavier Lucas, CB
One of the most talked-about transfers this offseason is Xavier Lucas, a cornerback who had a promising freshman year at Wisconsin. In 2024, Lucas recorded 18 tackles and made his mark with a couple of passes broken up, including an interception. A highly-rated three-star recruit from Florida, Lucas seemed poised for a bright future.
However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Wisconsin reportedly refused to let him enter the transfer portal. Lucas circumvented the process by withdrawing from school and committing to Miami. This controversial move has sparked discussions about potential tampering, with Wisconsin seeking involvement from the NCAA. Regardless of the legalities, Lucas’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the Badger defense.
#2 James Thompson Jr., DT
Another significant loss is James Thompson Jr., a defensive tackle who joined Wisconsin in 2020. Thompson had shown steady improvement throughout his tenure, logging 23 tackles in 2022 and 29 tackles in 2023, along with 13 tackles for loss and five quarterback sacks. Unfortunately, an injury during training camp in 2024 limited his playing time to just one game, leaving him with another year of eligibility.
Thompson has decided to transfer to Illinois, where he will look to make an impact in his final season. His departure is a tough blow for Wisconsin, as he was expected to be a key player on the defensive line.
#3 Leon Lowery Jr., LB
Lastly, we have Leon Lowery Jr., a linebacker who came to Wisconsin after spending four seasons at Syracuse. Lowery had a solid career, recording 25 tackles and six tackles for loss in 2022, which improved to 46 tackles and eight tackles for loss in 2023. In 2024, he contributed 29 tackles and a tackle for loss for the Badgers.
Lowery has now signed with Illinois, where he is expected to see immediate playing time. His experience and skills will be missed in Madison, as he was a vital part of the Badgers’ defense.
Wisconsin’s challenges ahead
The losses of Lucas, Thompson, and Lowery represent just a fraction of the challenges facing Wisconsin as they head into the next season. With a total of over two dozen players entering the transfer portal, the Badgers must work diligently to rebuild their roster. The team will need to focus on recruiting and developing new talent to fill the gaps left by these departures.
While the transfer portal can be a double-edged sword, it also presents an opportunity for teams to bring in fresh talent. Wisconsin has already added some players, but the question remains: will these new recruits be able to step up and fill the shoes of those who have left?
Looking forward
As Wisconsin navigates this transition, fans are left wondering how the team will adapt. The Badgers have a rich history in college football, and their ability to bounce back from adversity will be tested. With Fickell at the helm, there is hope that he can lead the team through this turbulent period and emerge stronger.
The impact of the transfer portal on college football cannot be understated. It has changed the landscape of the game, allowing players to seek new opportunities while also creating challenges for programs trying to maintain competitive rosters. Wisconsin’s situation is a prime example of this evolving dynamic.
What are your thoughts on Wisconsin’s recent transfer portal losses? How do you think these changes will affect the team’s performance in the upcoming season? Share your insights in the comments below. The future of Wisconsin football is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Badgers will need to rally together and find a way to overcome these challenges.
