Inside How a Veteran Wisconsin Football OL Can Lead the Offense During the 2025-26 Season

Wisconsin needs to rely upon the talent on the team and on the field in order to power through the upcoming season without too many scratches and dents. At the heart of team lies former four-star offensive tackle and top-100 recruit Riley Mahlman, who just might be the veteran leader the team needs to shine this upcoming season. Previously, Mahlman had considered leaving the program but opted to return to Madison which will prove to be a major boost for the team.

Wisconsin Football Team in Need of Quality Veteran Presence Riley Mahlman, Others Provide

While a single lineman can often not alter the results in a major way, Mahlman can do his job each game for the Wisconsin football team and that is something the veterans on the team will have to do.

It is no secret that Wisconsin is set to embark upon one of the most difficult schedules in all of college football this upcoming season. In order to win games against strong competition this season, Wisconsin will need to rely upon the veteran talent of the team that has experienced the ups and downs of college football.

A season ago, Mahlman proved to be one of the strongest players on the Wisconsin team and while the result of the season for the team was disappointing, the tackle had a great year. Mahlman had the opportunity to hit the transfer portal and become one of the best additions to a lucky program this off-season, but opted to stay in Madison for a final season as the tackle believes the program is on the cusp of accomplishing something great.

While the entire offensive line will need to be successful for the offense to be successful, Mahlman is going to be a player who will lead by example for the program. The powerful tackle rarely makes mistakes on the field and consistently manages to punish opposing defenders who attempt to disrupt the offense. The value of a veteran presence such as Mahlman on the Wisconsin football roster this upcoming season is incredible.