The Wisconsin Badgers wrapped up their third spring practice on Tuesday, marking their last open session before spring break. While the team has been easing into preparations, this practice showcased emerging talent and a rising competitive edge. Here are three main observations from the session:
Right Guard Position Up for Grabs?
The offensive line remains a focal point for Wisconsin, with right guard being the only unsettled position. Returning starters include left guard Joe Brunner, center Jake Renfro, and right tackle Riley Mahlman, while Kevin Heywood is expected to take over at left tackle.
Initially, veteran J.P. Benzschawel appeared to be the frontrunner for the right guard position. However, younger talents are pushing for an opportunity. Over the course of the practices, Kerry Kodanko and Emerson Mandell each took turns filling the role.
Mandell, a four-star recruit from the Class of 2024, spent his first year practicing at tackle but is projected to play on the interior. While it’s too early to determine if a full-fledged position battle will emerge, his presence adds intrigue to the competition heading into the rest of spring camp.
Tensions Rise as Competition Heats Up
Few newcomers have made as much of an impact as Ohio State transfer wide receiver Jayden Ballard.
Ballard, who drew praise over the weekend for his deep-play ability, isn’t just making waves with his performance—he’s also bringing energy to practice. The former four-star recruit has been engaging in competitive exchanges with cornerbacks Nyzier Fourqurean and Ricardo Hallman, adding an edge to each drill.
While the back-and-forth banter has remained within competitive bounds, it highlights the growing intensity of spring camp. With the Badgers working to establish their wide receiver depth for 2025, Ballard’s emergence comes at an important time—especially with top slot receiver Trech Kekahuna sidelined for the rest of spring due to a lower-body injury.
Edge Rusher Makes an Early Statement
Wisconsin revamped its defensive front this offseason, adding seven new players across the defensive line and edge rusher positions. Among them, Kentucky transfer Tyreese Fearbry stood out on Tuesday.
Despite the lack of full-contact drills, Fearbry made a strong impression, repeatedly disrupting plays off the edge. He teamed up with fellow newcomer Ernest Willor Jr. for a sack on quarterback Danny O’Neill, later beat right tackle Collin Cubberly to secure a tackle for loss, and outmaneuvered freshman right tackle Nolan Davenport to pressure quarterback Carter Smith.
While it’s still early in the process, Fearbry’s quick burst and ability to penetrate the backfield suggest he could be a key contributor in Wisconsin’s defensive rotation this fall.
With practice set to resume after spring break, the Badgers will continue refining their lineup as competition intensifies across multiple position groups.
