Wisconsin extended an offer to Grambling State transfer defensive lineman Michael Garner on Friday.
Garner, who played two years for the Tigers from 2023-24, has received transfer offers from Wisconsin, Georgia State, UAB, Colorado, Coastal Carolina, Campbell, Austin Peay, Bethune Cookman and Kent State since officially entering the portal on Dec. 9.
While he may not possess the statistical outputs of some of the top transfer linemen, the 6-foot-5 defender notched 11 tackles and 4 1/2 tackles for loss in six contests with Grambling in 2024. He also tallied a pair of sacks and a forced fumble in his sophomore season.
As a recruit, Garner was considered the No. 219 defensive lineman and No. 54 prospect from Illinois for the class of 2023. He reeled in offers from Navy, Central Michigan, Miami (OH), Ball State and FAU while at Bloom High School in Chicago.
After an amazing visit I am blessed to receive an offer from the University of Wisconsin. #GoBadgers pic.twitter.com/Nkv9RFN3eD
— Micheal Garner (@TheRealGMikey) December 20, 2024
Garner is among several defenders circled on Wisconsin’s transfer portal interest pool.
As of Dec. 20, Louisville edge rusher Mason Reiger, Tulane defensive lineman Parker Peterson, Western Michigan defensive lineman Corey Walker, UT-Martin defensive lineman Charles Perkins, Western Carolina linebacker Antarron Turner, Richmond safety Matthew Traynor and Bethel safety Matt Jung have officially committed to the Badgers.
Given the recent transfer departures of defensive linemen Curt Neal, James Thompson Jr. and Hank Weber, Wisconsin can use some bodies at the position. Garner doesn’t boast the most eye-popping resume, but he’s beginning to receive some national interest.