In a world where headlines are often dominated by scandal and controversy, Hunter Wohler — standout safety for the Wisconsin Badgers and rising face of college football — just rewrote the script on what it means to be a true role model.
In a stunning and emotional press conference held earlier today, Wohler announced he is donating his entire $15.9 million in signing bonuses and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) sponsorship earnings to fund the construction of a new housing facility for the homeless in Madison. The project will include 150 permanent housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds, making it one of the largest privately funded shelter initiatives in the state’s history.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Wohler said, his voice cracking with emotion. “And I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way. No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”
A Game-Changing Gift for Wisconsin
The donation will fully fund the “Badger Haven Project”, a nonprofit initiative that Wohler helped launch in partnership with local housing advocates, shelter organizations, and the city of Madison. Groundbreaking on the new facility — which will offer medical support, job training, and addiction services in addition to housing — is set for this fall.
City officials and nonprofit leaders have already hailed Wohler’s gift as a transformative moment for Wisconsin’s efforts to address homelessness.
“This isn’t just charity — this is visionary leadership,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “Hunter Wohler is showing us what it looks like to care, deeply and practically, about your community.”
From the Field to the Front Lines
Wohler, a senior at the University of Wisconsin and a top NFL Draft prospect, has long been recognized for his toughness on the field and quiet humility off it. But few knew about his personal connection to the issue of homelessness — or the extent of his plans to give back.
In his press conference, Wohler revealed that some of his childhood friends and relatives had faced housing insecurity, and those early experiences shaped his desire to one day be part of the solution.
“Football gave me everything — structure, discipline, opportunity. But I never forgot the people who didn’t get that break,” he said. “This is for them.”
A Community Responds
Within minutes of the announcement, social media lit up with praise and gratitude. Teammates, fans, alumni, and even NFL players shared their admiration.
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell called Wohler “the heart and soul of our team,” adding:
“What Hunter’s doing is bigger than football. This is legacy stuff. We talk to these guys about being men of character — he just set the gold standard.”
Looking Ahead
Wohler is expected to finish his senior season with the Badgers while continuing to oversee the Badger Haven Project alongside a team of local organizers and developers. He’s also launching a youth mentorship program connected to the shelter to help at-risk teens access education, sports, and vocational training.
As for the $15.9 million?