With the 2026 recruiting class wrapped up, Wisconsin is already setting its sights on the next wave of talent. As the Badgers gear up for the 2027 cycle, linebacker remains a key area of focus - and it’s easy to see why. The position is undergoing a bit of a shake-up, with some notable departures, but there’s also a promising foundation in place that gives the staff plenty to build on.
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: the transfer portal hits. Of the 13 players known to be entering the portal on January 2, none stings more than Christian Alliegro.
A two-year starter and steady presence in the middle of the defense, Alliegro’s decision to finish his college career elsewhere is a tough loss, especially considering the staff made a strong push to keep him in Madison. Alongside him, Tackett Curtis - who opened the season as a starter - is also on his way out, and reserve linebacker Antarron Turner is moving on as well after struggling to crack the rotation.
But here’s the thing: Wisconsin isn’t exactly starting from scratch. In fact, there’s a lot to like about what’s returning - and what’s coming in.
The heart of the linebacker group heading into 2026 is built around a pair of rising sophomores in Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano. Both flashed serious potential as freshmen and are expected to hold down starting roles next season.
Posa brings a physical, downhill style that fits the Badgers’ defensive identity, while Catalano showed impressive instincts and sideline-to-sideline range in limited action. If they take the next step in their development, this duo could be the cornerstone of the defense for years to come.
Behind them, Thomas Heiberger is another name to watch. He saw his role grow steadily throughout the 2025 season and looks poised to be a key rotational piece - assuming he returns. He’s got the length and athleticism to contribute in multiple spots, and his versatility could be a major asset in a defense that likes to mix up its looks.
The Badgers also added some experience to the room by landing Taylor Schaefer from the junior college ranks earlier this month. That was a solid win on the recruiting trail, and Schaefer brings a mature, game-ready presence that should help ease the loss of Alliegro and Curtis. He’s expected to compete for snaps right away.
Rounding out the depth chart are a trio of third-year players - Landon Gauthier, Drew Braam, and Heiberger - along with a pair of incoming freshmen in Ben Wenzel and Treve Stoffel. While it’s too early to project roles for the younger guys, the staff will be watching closely this spring to see who emerges.
Here’s a quick look at the linebacker room heading into 2026:
2026 Linebacker Eligibility Breakdown:
- Taylor Schaefer - Third year
- Thomas Heiberger - Third year
- Landon Gauthier - Third year
- Drew Braam - Third year
- Mason Posa - Second year
- Cooper Catalano - Second year
- Ben Wenzel - First year
- Treve Stoffel - First year
There’s still work to be done - both in terms of development and recruiting - but Wisconsin’s linebacker corps is far from bare. With a mix of young talent, returning experience, and a key JUCO addition, the Badgers have the pieces in place to build a strong second-level defense. The next few months will be crucial as the coaching staff evaluates what they have and continues to target the right fits in the 2027 class.