After a week or so of deliberation, Wisconsin QB Graham Mertz decided to enter the transfer portal. It seems like a decision that works for both sides. Mertz gets a fresh start somewhere else and Luke Fickell can find the more mobile QB that he has had success with. After the decision was announced, many Badgers players reacted to Graham Mertz entering the transfer portal.
— Graham Mertz (@GrahamMertz5) December 4, 2022
Badger Players React To Graham Mertz Entering Transfer Portal
It is clear from the response that Mertz was well-liked in the locker room. Many players spoke up wishing the QB the best in finding his next team. Wisconsin OL Jack Nelson was thankful for his time with Mertz.
Thankful for the time I got to spend with #5. This guy exemplified grit and hard work! Best of luck Graham!!! https://t.co/DwPPE2DYbJ
— Jack Nelson (@JackNelson755) December 4, 2022
Mertz’s pass catchers also had positive things to say. Both TEs Hayden Rucci and Clay Cundiff sent their good wishes.
Couldn’t have asked for a better teammate & friend the past four years. Time to shine ❤️ Brother for life!! https://t.co/euVHVP54lh
— Hayden Rucci (@haydenrucci) December 4, 2022
My brother til the end🤞🏼 Love you G5 https://t.co/TIIee0i4RK
— Clay Cundiff (@clay_cundiff10) December 4, 2022
It wasn’t just the offensive players either. Star linebacker Nick Herbig also chimed in with his thoughts on Graham Mertz leaving the program.
Love 5🤞🏼 Go be great💯 https://t.co/JIGJzKXbbW
— Nick Herbig (@nickherbig_) December 4, 2022
If He Was So Well-Liked, Why Did He Leave?
There are a couple of factors that led to Mertz leaving. The first is fan reactions. Fans have become very fed up with Mertz’s play and have not been shy about letting him know. I think he was looking to get away from these types of reactions. The second is that he does not fit the QB profile of a Luke Fickell team. Fickell likes more mobile QBs and Mertz is more of a traditional pocket passer. This meant a high likelihood that Mertz would be replaced. Mertz still has two years of eligibility and does not want to waste it on the bench.
Graham Mertz entering the transfer portal is one of those decisions that I think is best for everyone. I don’t think he would work in the Luke Fickell offense and Mertz can now make his mark on another program.
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