The Wisconsin Badgers are gearing up for a busy offseason, and the transfer portal is right at the center of it. With the portal officially opening on January 2nd, Wisconsin is already evaluating a number of potential additions to help fill some growing roster gaps.
One area that’s quickly becoming a priority? Running back.
The Badgers have seen some notable departures from the backfield in recent days. Redshirt freshman Dilin Jones announced he’s entering the portal, joining fellow back Cade Yacamelli in heading out.
That leaves Wisconsin with just three scholarship running backs at the moment: Darrion Dupree, Gideon Ituka, and 2026 commit Qwantavius Wiggins. That’s a thin group for a program that’s long prided itself on a deep and physical ground game.
Enter Bryan Jackson.
According to On3’s Pete Nakos, Wisconsin is emerging as an early team to watch for the USC transfer. Jackson, who will be a sophomore in 2025, brings a solid combination of size, power, and experience that could make him a valuable addition to the Badgers’ backfield.
Jackson logged 123 rushing yards and four touchdowns last season, averaging 3.4 yards per carry. That followed a freshman campaign where he totaled 188 yards and a score. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, they do show a young back who’s been able to contribute in limited opportunities, and who could be primed for a bigger role in a new system.
For Wisconsin, Jackson wouldn’t necessarily be expected to come in and carry the load, but he could be a stabilizing veteran presence in a room that’s suddenly short on experience. With Dupree and Ituka still developing and Wiggins not arriving until 2026, adding someone like Jackson could give the Badgers a reliable option who’s already seen the speed and physicality of Power Five football.
The Badgers have a history of building their identity around a strong running game. If they want to keep that tradition alive, restocking the running back room through the portal will be key-and Jackson could be the first domino to fall.