Yesterday I began looking at my depth chart predictions on the defensive side for the Wisconsin Badgers. Not only is there a ton of depth and experience on the defensive line, it’s the same case for the inside linebacker position too. It was a mystery last season with Jordan Turner and Maema Njongmeta as the starters, but they both performed really well. In fact, Njongmeta is statically one of the best linebackers int he country returning this season. Does the Mike Tressel 3-3-5 scheme change the position group?
Starters: Jordan Turner and Maema Njongmeta
As mentioned before, Wisconsin has their starting inside linebackers from last year returning. It was a little foggy for a bit as Jordan Turner was suspended from the team for a short time. Turner is back and should play a key role on this defense. Last year, Turner recorded 64 tackles, two sacks, and one interception. He has a good nose for the ball and should provide stability at an important position.
#Badgers LB Maema Njongmeta underwent a procedure on his hand this week. Luke Fickell says they expect him back at practice soon, will wear a club on his right hand. pic.twitter.com/OqkFfSx7Wl
— Zach Heilprin (@ZachHeilprin) August 8, 2023
Last night, there was a little scare shored about Maema Njongmeta. It was reported he had surgery on his hand and was in a sling. However, Luke Fickell said last night after the final practice at UW-Platteville it was possible Njongmeta could return once practices resume in Madison. I think they would keep it safe and give him some time to heal.
It’s important Njongmeta gets that rest as he was the leading tackler for Wisconsin last season He ended the season with 95 tackles, three and a half sacks, and one interception. I would not be surprised if Njongmeta is one of a few Badgers that hear their names called in the 2024 NFL Draft. Njongmeta is a critical part of this defense and one of the best players on this roster.
Second Unit: Tatum Grass and Jake Chaney
I really liked Jake Chaney coming into last season and I thought he would win one of the starting inside linebacker jobs. Luke Fickell and his staff are also big fans of Chaney. It’s been mentioned he has seen a lot of time with the number ones on defense. I think there is a chance he could take one of the starting jobs away and likely from Jordan Turner. Chaney had 38 tackles, one sack, and one interception in 2022. He was also another productive piece at that position.
Tatum Grass was a good second unit player last year as well. He had 20 tackles in the 2022 season. It’s going to be hard to see Grass grab a starting spot, but he’s another player in the rotation that should provide depth and experience.
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