Wisconsin Football's Returning Production Ranks 10th in Big Ten

Badgers look to transfer portal to rebuild after program-worst 4-8 season

Mar. 24, 2026 at 10:05am

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The Wisconsin Badgers will enter the 2026 season with significant roster turnover, adding several veteran starters through the transfer portal after a 4-8 campaign in 2025. While the Badgers' starting lineup has experience at key positions, the team's overall returning production ranks 10th in the 18-team Big Ten Conference, according to Bill Connelly's latest numbers.

Why it matters

Wisconsin is hoping the influx of transfer talent can help the team bounce back from its first losing season in over a decade. The Badgers' ability to translate this transfer-heavy lineup into on-field success will be crucial as they look to return to a bowl game for the first time in three seasons.

The details

The Badgers added veteran starters at quarterback, running back, center, tight end, defensive line, cornerback and safety, with signal-caller Colton Joseph headlining the transfer haul. Wisconsin's overall returning production ranks 35th nationally (45th on offense, 46th on defense), which places them 10th in the Big Ten.

  • The Badgers start their season against Notre Dame at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Sept. 6.
  • Wisconsin opens their Big Ten schedule with a road trip to Penn State on Sept. 26.

The players

Colton Joseph

The Badgers' new starting quarterback, who was added via the transfer portal.

Luke Fickell

The Badgers' head coach, who will look to translate the transfer-heavy lineup into on-field success after two losing seasons.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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