Wisconsin Badgers coaches headed west and have returned with some much-needed transfer players from UCLA. With their entire starting secondary and all but one receiver moving on due to expired eligibility or NFL aspirations, the Badgers used the transfer portal to add depth and potential in both positions.
Jay Shaw – CB
Cornerback Jay Shaw is the big get here – which isn’t to diminish the value of the other player that will be discussed shortly. With both Wisconsin’s starting corners gone, adding the third-highest graded corner in the Pac-12 last year is huge. His numbers don’t jump off the page with 27 tackles, two interceptions, and four passes defended. However, that could be due to no quarterbacks wanting to throw towards Shaw.
With a young Badgers secondary coming into the 2022 season, adding a veteran player with a proven track record will help ease pressure that may have been there otherwise. Plus, we all know Jim Leonard’s ability to develop and improve those playing under him. Overall, the addition of this previous three-star corner is going to be a massive help for the Badgers, as Shaw should be a day one starter.
Keontez Lewis – WR
Sticking with positions of need, the Badgers also added receiver Keontez Lewis. There aren’t any stats to go off of for Lewis, as he was a true freshman last season. However, he did see some action, which is a great sign.
The previous three-star WR will have three years of eligibility remaining. He was targeted by some major programs coming out of high school including Oregon, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss. Standing at 6’3″, Bucky continues the trend of looking for receivers with size. Lewis’ calling card is his ability to catch the ball away from his body. He’s also a smoother route runner than would be expected for someone of his size.
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