ESPN Ranks Wisconsin Badgers’ Offseason Among Worst in Big Ten
May 17, 2025 — Madison, WI
The Wisconsin Badgers football program has found itself under scrutiny following ESPN’s latest Big Ten offseason rankings. In a list evaluating how each team has handled roster changes, coaching transitions, and player development, ESPN placed the Badgers near the bottom — a surprising drop for a program with traditionally strong offseason performances.
According to the rankings released this week, Wisconsin’s offseason was labeled one of the worst in the Big Ten, citing key player departures, instability at quarterback, and underwhelming recruiting results.
Coaching Staff Uncertainty
One of the main concerns highlighted in ESPN’s report is the inconsistency in the coaching staff. Although head coach Luke Fickell is entering his second season, changes at offensive coordinator and defensive position groups have raised questions about continuity and direction. After a promising debut in 2023, the departure of offensive coordinator Phil Longo for another program forced the Badgers to retool their offensive game plan yet again.
“Staff turnover has made it difficult for the team to build consistent momentum,” ESPN analyst Bill Connelly noted. “It’s tough to develop young talent when schemes and leadership are in constant flux.”
Quarterback Questions Persist
Another focal point of ESPN’s critique was the continued uncertainty at quarterback. Tanner Mordecai’s departure after exhausting his eligibility left a void at the most important position. Despite bringing in transfer QB Riley Leonard from Duke, injuries have slowed his integration into the system, and spring practices have revealed that the quarterback battle remains unsettled heading into summer.
Backup options such as Braedyn Locke and freshman recruit Jaxon Smolik have shown flashes of potential, but neither has solidified themselves as clear No. 1 options. This lack of clarity at quarterback has contributed to a broader sense of unease within the program.
Recruiting Lags Behind Rivals
Recruiting was another area of concern. Wisconsin’s 2025 class currently ranks in the lower half of the Big Ten, with fewer top-tier commitments compared to traditional conference powers like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. ESPN also noted that Wisconsin has struggled to capitalize on its Midwestern recruiting base, losing several key regional battles to Minnesota and Iowa.
“Wisconsin’s inability to secure high-level recruits in critical positions, especially along the offensive line and secondary, puts them at a disadvantage entering the fall,” the report said.
Looking Ahead
Despite the negative offseason review, there is still time for the Badgers to rebound. Summer workouts and fall camp could provide clarity at key positions, and Fickell’s reputation for player development gives the team some hope. However, with a tougher Big Ten schedule looming — including matchups against USC and Oregon — Wisconsin will need to find answers quickly.
Unless significant progress is made, ESPN’s bleak outlook could prove prophetic as the 2025 season approaches.
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