Wisconsin senior defensive Matt Henningsen is healthy for tomorrow’s start of spring practice, Head Coach Paul Chryst said during media availability today.
Paul Chryst says DE Matt Henningsen will be available this spring while James Thompson won't participate. Both are coming back from injuries suffered last year. #Badgers
— George Balekji (@GeorgeBalekji) March 29, 2021
The veteran defensive lineman injured his arm during the Badgers’ 49-11 victory over Michigan last October and missed the remainder of the season.
Henningsen’s health is great news for a Wisconsin defensive line that saw more turnover than any other position group when 2020 came to a close.
Last year’s starters: Seniors Isaiahh Loudermilk and Garrett Rand.
This year’s projected starters: Isaiah Mullens and Henningsen.
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Henningsen, a Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin native and former walk-on, had a productive 2019 campaign as a depth option at defensive end, playing in 11 games and recording 24 tackles, 5 tackles-for-loss, 4 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries.
His season-ending injury last year, then, put to a halt what could’ve been a breakout year from the upperclassman.
Chryst also noted today that DE James Thompson Jr., who was also injured during Wisconsin’s victory over Michigan, will not participate this spring.
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