Wisconsin Badgers' Freshmen Linebackers Shine

0:00On April 1st Wisconsin Badgers locked down the solid 2025 recruiting class, just missing the top 25 and they paid off Big Ed. Linebacker with True Freshman, Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano stepping up huge. Posa, the top rated four star commit who flipped to the Badgers last summer and three star Catalano both grabbed starting spots in late October after. An injury opened the door, turning into the core of the 2026 defense, Posa even earned Freshman all-American honors. With starters Christian Aliego and Takay Curtis hitting the transfer portal, Deft got thin so the staff moved fast, snagging Joko transfer, Taylor Schaefer early and Kansas standout, John John Kamara to beef up the room. Meanwhile, 2024 four star Thomas Highbergers earning reps behind them after shifting inside, filling a role like Aaron Whitt did last. Year, and the coaches are testing three linebacker packages with him, Posa and Catalano together.

1:02Defensive coordinator Mike Tressel loves the competition brewing, saying guys like Highberger and Kamara are pushing the vets with their rush skills, length and speed, setting a versatile looks that keep everyone fresh for a stacked linebacker group this fall.