SAD DEPARTURE: Luke Fickell Announces the Departure and Confirms the List of 5 Players Set to Depart from the Wisconsin Badgers
In a surprising and emotional update, Wisconsin Badgers head coach Luke Fickell announced the departure of five key players from the team, marking a significant moment of transition for the program. Speaking during a press conference earlier this week, Fickell confirmed that these players have either entered the transfer portal or declared their intention to pursue opportunities elsewhere, sending ripples through the Badgers fanbase.
“This is the tough part of the job,” Fickell said. “These young men have given a lot to this program, and while it’s hard to see them go, we respect their decisions and wish them nothing but success.”
While the full details of their destinations have yet to be officially confirmed, sources indicate that the players are evaluating options across various programs nationwide, with some aiming for a fresh start and others hoping to raise their draft stock with more exposure.
The confirmed list includes:
1. Tanner Mordecai (Quarterback) – A pivotal figure in the Badgers’ offense, Mordecai brought experience and leadership under center. Though he had just one season with Wisconsin after transferring from SMU, his impact was undeniable. His departure leaves a gap at the quarterback position that will need urgent addressing heading into the next season.
2. Braelon Allen (Running Back) – A dynamic rusher and fan favorite, Allen’s combination of size, speed, and vision made him one of the Big Ten’s most exciting talents. His departure is a major blow to the offense, and speculation is swirling that he could be preparing for the NFL Draft.
3. Hunter Wohler (Safety) – A strong defensive presence, Wohler’s physicality and football IQ made him a key contributor in the secondary. With several programs reportedly interested, his departure is expected to be a major gain for whichever team secures him.
4. Jack Nelson (Offensive Line) – A reliable anchor on the offensive line, Nelson’s consistency and leadership made him a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s protection scheme. Losing such a dependable blocker will pose a challenge for Fickell’s staff as they look to retool the offensive front.
5. Skyler Bell (Wide Receiver) – Known for his agility and clutch catches, Bell brought versatility to the receiving corps. Though his numbers weren’t always flashy, his ability to stretch the field and make key plays will be missed.
Fickell expressed pride in the development of these players and emphasized that their decisions to leave were not taken lightly. “Each of these guys had conversations with us, and we support them 100 percent,” he said. “They’ll always be part of the Badger family.”
The departures highlight the ongoing volatility in college football, where the transfer portal and draft opportunities continue to reshape rosters year after year. For Wisconsin, this offseason will now focus on rebuilding, recruiting, and giving younger players a chance to step into bigger roles.
As fans process this news, the focus shifts toward the future, but the contributions of these departing players won’t be forgotten anytime soon.