The Wisconsin Badgers world was shook to its core last night. Jim Leonhard, who was once believed to be staying at Wisconsin, announced that he would be leaving the university after the Guaranteed Rate Bowl game on December 27. Obviously, the announcement was met with a plethora of emotions from fans and players alike. One thing is certain, though. Leonhard had an immense impact on the young men whom he coached. Many of them took to social media to share messages of thanks and best wishes to their former coach.
Danny Davis
Perhaps it won’t be long before Jim Leonhard and Danny Davis are reunited. Davis was signed by the Packers as an undrafted free agent, but did not make the team. Since then, he has worked out for the Packers midseason, but was not signed. Perhaps they both make their way back to Green Bay next season.
Appreciate all the game you taught me coach! 🏈 you that guy!!!🐐#OnWisconsin https://t.co/qEg2Dj0t7A
— Danny Davis III (@DDIII_7) December 7, 2022
Matt Henningsen
Current Denver Broncos defensive lineman Matt Henningsen played for Jim Leonhard at Wisconsin from 2018-2021. In four seasons with the Badgers, Henningsen had 92 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 13.5 tackles for loss. He was drafted in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In 12 games and very limited playing time, Henningsen has accumulated 17 total tackles and a sack.
One of the brightest and greatest men in the game, and an inspiration to all underdogs out there. I wouldn’t be where I am without Coach Leonhard. Thank you 🐐 https://t.co/2tmFP0bWNV
— Matt Henningsen (@matthenningsen) December 7, 2022
Skyler Bell
Wide receiver Skyler Bell had 29 receptions for 439 yards and five touchdowns for the Badgers this season. As of today, he has not entered the transfer portal.
😔🐐 it’s been an honor Coach. https://t.co/VUhTIdSU39
— Skyler Bell (@Juicebe11) December 7, 2022
Scott Nelson
Former Badgers safety Scott Nelson is currently awaiting another NFL opportunity. He has spent the 2022 season on the practice squads of the Seahawks and Steelers. Nelson was released by Pittsburgh back in October. He 125 tackles and four interceptions during his four seasons under Leonhard at Wisconsin.
Best in the business! Blessed to be able to learn from you and play for you throughout college. The 🐐 without question! https://t.co/MUtmuoUg1l
— Scott Nelson (@_scottnelson) December 7, 2022
Collin Wilder
Former Badgers safety Collin Wilder transferred to Wisconsin from Houston and spent two seasons playing under Leonhard. In that time, he racked up 49 tackles and an interception.
I wouldn’t be the player or man I am without this man. Gratitude to him isn’t the word! Too much to say. THE GREATEST. https://t.co/odVfiEGYb4
— Collin Wilder (@WilderCollin) December 7, 2022
Braelon Allen
Of course, all Badgers fans know Braelon Allen. The star running back recently confirmed that he is still a Wisconsin Badger.
One of the best to ever do it ❤️ https://t.co/b9n29jDo8F
— Braelon Allen (@BraelonAllen) December 7, 2022
Myles Burkett
Freshman quarterback Myles Burkett may be starting on December 27.
Jimmy Cooks 4L🤞🏽 https://t.co/uOOu6kR8yN
— Myles Burkett (@myles_burkett) December 7, 2022
Nick Herbig
In just three seasons under Jim Leonhard, Nick Herbig has racked up 134 tackles and 21 sacks. He has yet to enter the transfer portal, and it is not known if he will.
THE GREATEST BADGER OF ALL TIME!!!! ON AND OFF THE FIELD💯💯💯 https://t.co/xUEs8fwqji
— Nick Herbig (@nickherbig_) December 7, 2022
Justin Clark
Cornerback Justin Clark spent five years at Toledo before transferring to Wisconsin for this season. He had 10 tackles in nine games.
Said it many times but I learned so much from this guy in such a short period of time. Really helped me expand my knowledge of the game. He’s that dude ! https://t.co/qLV7e72zM8
— Justin Clark (@jclark_24_) December 7, 2022
Julius Davis
Junior running back Julius Davis rushed for 82 yards on 11 attempts this season. He has not entered the transfer portal.
The Goat💯 💪🏽 https://t.co/3in648joZo
— 𝓙𝓾𝓵𝓲𝓾𝓼 𝓓𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓼 (@juliusdavis32) December 7, 2022
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