Badgers O-Lineman Bolts Before Portal Deadline

Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Leyton Nelson has entered the NCAA transfer portal just hours before the deadline. Nelson announced his decision on social media late Friday afternoon, with the window set to close at 11:00 p.m. CT. This move comes as a surprise given the timing, as the transfer portal window opened on January 2.

Nelson initially joined the Badgers in 2024 via the transfer portal from Vanderbilt, following offensive line coach A.J. Blazek. Blazek was fired by Wisconsin in December 2025 and subsequently hired by UCF, leading to speculation that Nelson might follow him again. Nelson played in 10 offensive snaps last season, appearing in the first two games at tackle, but saw minimal playing time in 2023 and 2024.

Nelson's departure creates a late vacancy on Wisconsin's offensive line. The team has been actively recruiting through the portal and may seek an additional lineman. New offensive line coach Eric Mateos has emphasized competition, and Nelson's exit means he will not be part of that competition for a starting job this offseason.