Wisconsin Football: Former 4-Star OLB Enters the Transfer Portal

Originally posted on Badger Notes | By Dillon Graff | Last updated 4/15/24

A once-promising defensive recruit from the University of Wisconsin football team plans to enter the transfer portal.

Redshirt junior T.J. Bollers, a former four-star recruit in the 2021 class, intends to hit the open market this week after spending more than three years with the Wisconsin football program.

“Over the last 3 years, I have loved my time at Wisconsin, and I’m thankful for the opportunities this school and program have given me,” Bollers wrote. “With that being said, it’s time to move on and pursue other football opportunities. I am entering my name into the transfer portal.”

Dear Wisconsin, pic.twitter.com/sWvIDacuDs

— TJ Bollers (@tj35ballin) April 15, 2024

Throughout his college career, Bollers faced a persistent challenge with his size. He fell into the tweener mold at outside linebacker/defensive end, which made it hard for the Badgers staff to find his ideal fit on defense.

During bowl prep, Wisconsin football coaches had Boller’s transition to defensive end, where he wound up playing seven snaps against LSU. This spring, Bollers rotated primarily with the second and third-team defenses, providing depth along the Badgers defensive line.

Following a redshirt year in 2021, Bollers saw action in 11 games on special teams and at outside linebacker, recording two tackles in 28 total snaps, per Pro Football Focus. He then appeared in four games on special teams during the 2023 season under head coach Luke Fickell.

The Badgers continue to face significant attrition along the defensive line this offseason. Wisconsin football lost starters Rodas Johnson and Gio Paez to the transfer portal. Additionally, players like Isaiah Mullens, Darian Varner, and now Bollers are no longer with the program.

Bollers has two years of eligibility left and will seek a more prominent role at his next stop.

This article first appeared on Badger Notes and was syndicated with permission.

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