Wisconsin Football: Transfers Cause Shakeup in the WR Depth Chart

Madison, Wis. – The Wisconsin football program is just a few days away from “The Launch,” and changes are being made all over in spring practice. 

The wide receiver room was a group to watch heading into spring, and the competition inside the group has not disappointed. Some former transfer portal additions are making waves, and as a result, the depth chart has received some shakeups. 

Here’s how Wisconsin has shaken up the receiver depth chart.

Wisconsin football receivers CJ Williams and Will Pauling shining in spring practice

On Tuesday, the Badgers completed spring practice No. 11. One of the biggest takeaways of the day was the movement in the receiver corps.

According to Zach Heilprin, CJ Williams has climbed into the first team.

Notable change for the WRs today. CJ Williams moved up to the first team, joining Chimere Dike and Will Pauling. That bumped Keontez Lewis down to the 2nd group with Skyler Bell and Vinny Anthony.

— Zach Heilprin (@ZachHeilprin) April 18, 2023

Senior Chimere Dike and Cincinnati transfer Will Pauling make up the other first-team receivers.

Williams, a former four-star receiver, has made a strong impact over the last few practices. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound receiver is a polished route runner with impressive hands. In spring ball, he’s impressed with his ability to haul in contested catches and make defenders miss in space. 

The former USC receiver appeared in nine games last season when he hauled in four catches for 34 yards. Now that he’s gotten a real shot at showcasing his abilities, he’s earned a spot with the first team.

As for Pauling, he’s put himself above the rest in the slot receiver battle as he’s taken over the top spot from Skyler Bell. 

Pauling was a standout player every day in spring thus far. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound pass catcher has impressed with his speed, elusiveness, and ability to haul in catches. With his quick ascension, he could be a real contributor to Wisconsin’s air raid offense in 2023. 

It’s early in spring, but Pauling and Williams have made strong impressions. With the depth in the Wisconsin football program’s receiver room, there’s still plenty of time for others to take a step forward. 

As we draw closer to the 2023 season, the receiver battle will remain an item to watch.