Wisconsin Football Flips Louisville Transfer Commit From the Portal

Luke Fickell and the Wisconsin football coaching staff can finally cross defensive linemen from the transfer portal off their wishlist. 

Stephen F. Austin defensive tackle Brandon Lane, who committed to Louisville, has flipped his verbal commitment and will join the Badgers.

𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐄𝐃. ✔️

Welcome to the Badger family, @Brandonlane_88! pic.twitter.com/TB9CMqaFGV

— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) May 24, 2024

“Honestly, it’s all about building relationships and the best opportunity for me on the field, developing me for the next level, and knowing the school has your back,” Lane told Badgernotes.

“Finding a school that actually wants and needs you — it hit different.”

This spring was a rollercoaster ride for Lane, who verbally committed to three different programs before putting pen to paper and signing with Wisconsin football. In April, Lane committed to Michigan State, but he kept his options open, leading to a brief stint at Louisville. 

Despite his commitment to the Cardinals, the Wisconsin football coaches never let off the gas in their pursuit of Lane. Their relentless efforts ultimately persuaded him to change his course and come to Madison. 

Lane started his collegiate career at South Dakota State, appearing in three games in 2021 before transferring to Stephen F. Austin, where he played the last two seasons. 

The 6-foot-3, 300-pound defensive lineman from Kansas City, Missouri, registered 44 tackles, 11 pressures, and 6.5 tackles for loss this past season. Pro Football Focus gave Lane a defensive grade of 74.6. He should also be an asset as a run defender, where he earned a 79.9 grade.

He joins a Badgers defensive line room under position coach E.J. Whitlow, where snaps are up for grabs. James Thompson Jr. and Curt Neal took first-team reps this spring, with Ben Barten and Elijah Hills rotating in behind them. On paper, Lane should immediately boost the team’s depth and talent level while pushing for a meaningful spot in the two deep this fall. 

Lane will have two years of eligibility remaining as a member of the Wisconsin football program. 

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