Size is what Wisconsin Badgers football head coach Luke Fickell prioritized in the 2025 summer and his assistant, scouts, and mainstays are up to the task. One name to watch out for is Mason Reiger.
They got what they were looking for in the transfer portal while those who stayed with them bulked up.
The linebacker, who is on his first year with the Badgers after three seasons with Louisville Cardinals, has been impressing in practice sessions. His veteran tight end Tucker Ashcraft is among those who sees his potential.
“Mason Reiger is a beast. Kid has the highest motor I’ve seen,” the tight end told Ryan Harings of Locked on Badgers.
Ashcraft also shouted out some of their big men and feels positive about what they can do this season.
“They’re quick. It’s really fun,” he shared.
“It’s so fun to go against a competition like that. DP still beast. It’s gonna be physical as hell.”
“Mason Reiger is a BEAST” – Tucker Ashcraft talks about the new pieces on the Badgers defense.@reiger_mason @ashcraft_tucker pic.twitter.com/WNdSg9rp5t
— Ryan Harings (@RyanAndBucky) August 4, 2025
Reiger was the first portal addition for Fickell and he came to the team with high expectations. However, those expectations were dashed before the start of the 2024 season as he underwent surgery for a leg injuy.
Mason Reiger is roaring to go
Reiger is making up for lost time and that shows in practices.
Fickell said the linebacker is bringing tons of energy in practices. “There’s a lot of Mason out there,” he said.
However, they are being careful with him given his injury history.
“Guys like Mason, you’ve got to save them from themselves, because they know one speed,” Fickell said as reported by Badger Notes.
“Our ability to continue to give him what he needs to be ready, but not overdo it out here, because in five or six days, he’s already shown us he can give us something that’s maybe even more than what you see on the field. There’s an energy that’s contagious.”
For more great Wisconsin sports content
Follow us @WiSportsHeroics for the latest and trending news about Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Marquette, and the rest of Wisconsin Sports. Stay updated by reading more of our Wisconsin Sports articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
