Joe Brunner, Wisconsin’s Rock at Left Guard, Transfers to Big Ten Rival Indiana
One of Wisconsin’s most dependable offensive linemen over the past two seasons is heading to a new home - and it’s one that’s sure to raise some eyebrows around the Big Ten. Joe Brunner, the Badgers’ starting left guard and a former four-star recruit, has committed to Indiana for his final season of eligibility after entering the transfer portal.
Brunner’s move is a significant one, not just because of the player he’s become, but because of what he meant to Wisconsin’s offensive front. A top-100 recruit nationally and the No. 1 prospect in Wisconsin in the 2022 class, Brunner came to Madison with high expectations. He had offers from blue-blood programs like Ohio State and Notre Dame, but chose to stay home and suit up for the Badgers.
And he didn’t disappoint.
After seeing the field in 15 games over his first two seasons, Brunner locked down the starting left guard spot in 2024 - and he didn’t just hold it, he excelled. He started all 12 games that year and finished as the third-highest-graded guard in the Big Ten, per Pro Football Focus.
That’s no small feat in a conference known for producing NFL-caliber linemen. His steady presence helped Wisconsin allow just 13 sacks that season - the fewest in the entire conference.
In 2025, Brunner once again anchored a unit that faced its fair share of adversity. The Badgers’ offensive line was a revolving door at times, with injuries and inconsistent play forcing constant shuffling.
But through it all, Brunner remained the constant. His reliability in both pass protection and run blocking made him a cornerstone of the offense, and his departure leaves a sizable hole heading into 2026.
When the 2025 season wrapped, Brunner’s future was up in the air. He had options - return to Wisconsin, declare for the NFL Draft, or explore the transfer portal.
Ultimately, he chose the latter, and it didn’t take long for suitors to come calling. A player of his caliber doesn’t stay on the market for long, and now he’s landed with Indiana, a program that’s been making waves in the new-look Big Ten.
For Indiana, this is a massive win. They’re getting a proven Big Ten starter who brings toughness, experience, and a high football IQ to the trenches. Brunner’s presence should immediately elevate the Hoosiers' offensive line and give them a veteran leader in the locker room.
As for Wisconsin, the focus shifts to retooling the interior line. The Badgers have brought in several transfers to help fill the void, including Austin Kawecki (Oklahoma State), Lucas Simmons (Florida State), Blake Cherry (Arkansas), and PJ Wilkins (Ole Miss). Kawecki and Cherry, in particular, are expected to compete for interior spots and could be key pieces as the Badgers look to rebuild around a new core.
Brunner’s departure is a tough blow for Wisconsin - no doubt about it. But for Indiana, it’s a major step forward in the trenches. One of the Big Ten’s most consistent linemen is staying in the conference, just wearing a different shade of red.