Luke Fickell returns for his fourth season after Wisconsin finished 4-8 overall and 2-7 in Big Ten play in 2025. Jeff Grimes returns for his second season as offensive coordinator, while Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph joins the program at quarterback. Iowa State transfer Abu Sama III joins the backfield after averaging 61 rushing yards per game last season, while Darrion Dupree returns after averaging 36 rushing yards per game. Wisconsin must replace its top three receivers from last season, while Tyrell Henry returns and Oklahoma State transfer Shamar Rigby joins the receiving corps after making 25 catches in 2025. The offensive line returns full-time starter Emerson Mandell, while Colin Cubberly adds significant experience after making seven starts last season. Oklahoma State transfer Austin Kawecki joins the group after making 11 starts in 2025.
Mike Tressel returns for his fourth season as defensive coordinator with Wisconsin bringing back three of its top eleven tacklers, including its top two in linebackers Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano. Arkansas transfer Justus Boone joins the linebacker group, while West Virginia transfer Hammond Russell joins the defensive front after making five starts last season. Matt Jung returns in the secondary after making eight starts, while Arizona State transfer Javan Robinson and Missouri transfer Marvin Burks Jr. add considerable Power Conference experience after each making 12 starts in 2025.
Bob Ligashesky takes over as special teams coordinator with Gavin Lahm stepping into the competition at placekicker after previously handling kickoff duties. Sean West provides an option at punter, while Tyrell Henry returns with experience in the punt-return game. Wisconsin will feature a new primary kickoff returner following Vinny Anthony II’s departure for the NFL. The Badgers enter 2026 with considerable turnover at quarterback and receiver but add proven Power Conference production at running back and along the offensive line. Defensively, Wisconsin returns its top two tacklers while adding several experienced transfers to a unit that will feature numerous new starters.