Wisconsin predicted to land top transfer quarterback, former Big Ten starter

Some big news on the heels of Wisconsin landing QB Danny O’Neil

Wisconsin is making major noise on the transfer portal recruiting trail.

The program has landed five transfer commitments since last Friday, those coming from San Diego State quarterback Danny O’Neil, Western Michigan defensive lineman Corey Walker, Louisville edge rusher Mason Reiger, Ball State tight end Tanner Koziol and Tulane defensive lineman Parker Petersen.

Related: Tracking Wisconsin football’s transfer portal offers, interests and commitments

All five additions fulfill major areas of need on the Badgers’ roster — none bigger than quarterback.

O’Neil projects to be Wisconsin’s backup in 2025. He transfers to the program with three years of eligibility remaining after starting as a true freshman in 2024.

Who exactly fills the starting role is still unclear as of Dec. 16. But there are indications that a commitment is imminent: On3 recruiting insiders Steve Wiltfong and Pete Nakos recently logged predictions for former Maryland starting quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. to choose the Badgers, flipping from their original pick of Michigan.

This news comes on the heels of Wisconsin hosting Edwards Jr. on an official visit over the weekend.

Edwards Jr. is in the portal after three years with the Terrapins. He was their starter in 2024, completing 65% of his passes for 2,881 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He was one of the only bright spots on a Maryland team that finished the year 4-8.

Edwards Jr. was also set to take a transfer visit to Michigan, though 247Sports’ Chris Hummer reports that he will no longer do so. The service is also reporting that he will still visit Virginia.

Edwards Jr.’s recruitment is worth monitoring with the Badgers now appearing to be the favorite. If he commits, he would give Wisconsin a sure-fire starting option in 2025 with O’Neil and top class of 2025 signee Carter Smith next in line moving into 2026 and beyond.

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