Wisconsin Zeroes In on Dual-Threat QB Colton Joseph as Transfer Portal Heats Up
As the college football transfer portal gears up for another wave of movement, the Wisconsin Badgers appear to have their eyes locked on one of the most intriguing quarterback options available: Colton Joseph. The Old Dominion standout is already generating serious buzz before the portal officially opens in January - and for good reason.
Joseph brings more than just stats to the table - though the numbers alone are impressive. Over two seasons as a starter with the Monarchs, he threw for 4,251 yards and 32 touchdowns while adding 1,654 yards and 24 scores on the ground.
That kind of production - especially the rare combination of over 2,000 passing and 1,000 rushing yards in a single season - puts him in elite territory. In fact, only one other FBS player, USF’s Byrum Brown, matched that feat this year.
For Wisconsin, Joseph isn’t just a flashy name. He’s a potential fit for what this offense is evolving into under offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes.
Grimes has long favored quarterbacks who can extend plays with their legs and create out of structure - and Joseph checks every box. His athleticism, versatility, and proven ability to produce as both a passer and a rusher make him a natural fit for the Badgers’ new-look system.
The Quarterback Room: Promising, But Not Complete
Wisconsin isn’t starting from scratch at quarterback. Carter Smith is already in the fold and gaining valuable experience, while 2026 signee Ryan Hopkins adds long-term depth.
That’s a solid foundation - but it’s clear the staff is still looking for a day-one starter who can elevate the offense immediately. That’s where Joseph comes in.
He’s not just a stopgap. He’s a potential game-changer.
But he won’t come cheap. Joseph reportedly carries a valuation near $2 million, and Wisconsin - like most programs - has other roster needs to consider.
The Badgers have the financial flexibility to make a move, but the question now is whether they’ll commit the resources to land their top target.
Other Names in the Mix
While Joseph appears to be the priority, he’s not the only quarterback Wisconsin has been linked to. Former four-star recruit Marcus Stokes, now at West Florida, had early contact with the Badgers. But with a visit to Syracuse already lined up and more interest pouring in by the day, Wisconsin’s window there may be closing.
Another name to watch is Kenny Minchey, a former four-star prospect who transferred from Notre Dame. Minchey was part of the 2023 recruiting class but hasn’t seen much playing time yet. His upside is clear, but with so much still unknown about his transfer plans, it’s hard to gauge how serious the mutual interest is at this point.
Then there’s Tayven Jackson, a former Tennessee commit who’s had a winding college journey. After transferring to Indiana and then UCF, Jackson is back in the portal following an up-and-down season with the Knights, where he started 11 games but posted a QBR of just 54.1. He’s an intriguing dark horse - talented, experienced, and potentially looking for a fresh start.
What Comes Next?
The portal hasn’t officially opened yet, but the quarterback carousel is already spinning. Wisconsin has done its homework, and Colton Joseph looks like the quarterback at the top of their board. With his dual-threat ability and proven production, he fits the mold of what this offense needs to take the next step.
Now, it’s a matter of timing, fit - and yes, financial commitment. The Badgers have the pieces in place to be competitive in the Big Ten. Adding a quarterback like Joseph could be the difference between merely staying afloat and making a serious push in 2026.