Wisconsin RB Gideon Ituka's Playing Career Likely Over

Wisconsin Badgers running back Gideon Ituka's football future appears uncertain, with head coach Luke Fickell expressing doubt about his return to play. Fickell announced on July 28, 2026, that Ituka, a redshirt sophomore, will miss the current season and is unlikely to play again due to a significant injury. Ituka suffered an apparent neck injury in November of the previous year during a game against Indiana. He was treated on the field and left on a stretcher with his head immobilized. This injury halted a crucial three-week period where Ituka had become the team's primary ball carrier due to other players' injuries. He had shown promise during this stretch, with notable yardage in games against Oregon and Washington. Despite not being cleared to play, Ituka continues to be an active presence within the program, participating in daily workouts at the team's facility.