The Wisconsin Badgers are among 24 collegiate programs with a starting quarterback in the NFL ahead of the 2024 campaign.
Former Badger and 2011 Big Ten Quarterback of the Year Russell Wilson will represent the program as the sole Wisconsin alumnus starting under center this season. He will do so for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Oklahoma, which produced Kyler Murray (Cardinals), Jalen Hurts (Eagles) and Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers), has the most current starters. Oregon, Clemson, California, Alabama, USC and LSU are tied for second with two pro quarterbacks apiece.
A total of three NFL starting quarterbacks played in the Big Ten during their collegiate tenures. That list includes Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins (Falcons), Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud (Texans) and Wisconsin’s Wilson (Steelers).
While Oregon’s products Justin Herbert (Chargers) and Bo Nix (Broncos) technically represent Big Ten teams beginning this fall, they did not play in the Big Ten during their pre-NFL journeys. The same goes for USC’s Caleb Williams (Bears) and Sam Darnold (Vikings).
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Unlike top programs Alabama, Oklahoma, Clemson and USC, Wisconsin has not produced the most prestigious NFL talents at the position. The program’s main positional strengths revolve around their offensive line, running back and linebacker rooms.
Nonetheless, Wilson will take the field this season as a proud UW alumnus.