Within Matt Mitchell’s outside linebacker corps, many freshmen have recently begun their careers with the University of Wisconsin football programme.
Six maps that clarify the current recruitment efforts made by Wisconsin football
Contributors from a year ago, CJ Goetz, Jeff Pietrowski, and Kaden Johnson, are no longer at Wisconsin. But the staff added talent to this position, too, as FCS All-American John Pius (William & Mary) and transfer Leon Lowery Jr. (Syracuse) complemented returning Badgers Darryl Peterson and Aaron Witt.
Two true freshmen who were ranked as four-star recruits by at least one recruiting publication, Thomas Heiberger and Anelu Lafaele, were also accepted as early enrollees by Wisconsin.
“Obviously five practices in here, we’ve got a completely different group at the outside linebacker room,” Mitchell stated. We’re working through a lot of issues since there are a lot of new faces. obviously imparting our defensive system and unique talents and tactics to a large number of players. Simply attempting to go through that process and, while we do so, attempting to assess the relative positions and skill sets of some of the men.
“But coaching this bunch has been a pleasure. Naturally, there were some transfers and early-enrolling freshmen. As I just indicated, there are many faces and many signs of growth, but they have all truly embraced coach Luke Fickell’s vision.
“But coaching this bunch has been a pleasure. Naturally, there were some transfers and early-enrolling freshmen. As I just indicated, there are a lot of faces and a lot of progress, but everyone has truly embraced Wisconsin football and coach Luke Fickell’s philosophy. And I’m happy with how we’re doing after five practices.”
“Length” and “athleticism” were two key buzz words Wisconsin staff have used since December when discussing bringing in players either via the transfer portal or high school recruiting. The program found players in Lowery (listed at 6 foot 3, 251 pounds on Wisconsin’s spring roster) and Pius (6-4, 244) that fit that mold. Mitchell explained how those traits help within this specific, versatile position group. Mitchell’s title at Wisconsin also includes special teams coordinator. He reflected on where the Badgers can improve heading into the 2024 season, but he also complimented a couple players in one return group.