BREAKING: Cornerback Xavier Lucas: ‘Wisconsin is refusing to release me to the transfer portal’

A significant update with Wisconsin star CB Xavier Lucas

Wisconsin’s offseason took another wild turn on Friday afternoon.

Star freshman cornerback Xavier Lucas, who announced his intention to transfer on Dec. 19, publicly stated Wisconsin is “refusing to release me” to the portal.

Related: Ranking Wisconsin football’s transfer portal class by projected 2025 impact

“I still intend to transfer, but at the moment Wisconsin is refusing to release me into the transfer portal,” Lucas wrote on X. “I’ve met all NCAA requirements of the transfer portal process. I’ve yet to be put into the transfer portal by Wisconsin which is impeding my ability to speak with schools.”

What began as a significant headline in an offseason of roster movement has now grown in significance. The top cornerback is attempting to exit after one season with the Badgers. He played a primary role as a true freshman, totaling 18 tackles (12 solo), two tackles for loss, one sack, one interception and two pass deflections. Given the significant offseason roster movement at the position, he was set to lead the room in 2025 and beyond.

There are no further details about this situation and how far it is from a resolution. The transfer window closes on Dec. 28, which could be a reason for the timing of Lucas’ public statement.

As of now, it appears another in a long list of messy situations in the current age of college athletics, specifically with free roster movement and an unregulated NIL system.

Stay tuned to Badgers Wire throughout the upcoming days as the story gains clarity, both with a resolution and the reason for the apparent conflict.

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