Badgers Linebacker Jake Chaney Looking 'Faster, More Explosive'

Wisconsin's senior linebacker put in some serious work this offseason.

Luke Fickell and the Wisconsin football program made revamping the Badgers linebacking corps a top priority this offseason.

Coinciding with the introduction of a new defensive scheme by coach Fickell and defensive coordinator Mike Tressel, the Badgers dipped into the portal, bringing in an influx of athletic transfer linebackers like Jaheim Thomas, Tackett Curtis, and Sebastian Cheeks.

“If I would say there’s probably the biggest difference in one group, it might be there,” Fickell told reporters. “You know length, some athleticism, some competitiveness now that you have five guys or so, six guys in the mix, trying to battle for two, and then you’ll there’ll be some opportunities we’ll have three of those guys on the field.”

Despite all the new faces joining the team, senior linebacker Jake Chaney, a holdover from the previous regime, has not only decided to stay and compete but has also stepped up to lead Wisconsin's linebacker room.