Wisconsin added a commitment from walk-on kickoff specialist Gianni Smith on Tuesday.
Smith joins as a grad transfer from Portland State. He recorded touchbacks on 45 of his 63 kickoffs last season, plus has a career field goal mark of 17/22 (8/9 in 2023) — meaning he can also kick field goals if necessary.
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Wisconsin used Gavin Lahm in the kickoff specialist role in 2023. He sent just 12 of his 32 kickoffs for touchbacks — making this an opportunity to upgrade entering an important 2024 season.
grateful, excited & ready to be a badger #OnWisconsin 🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/ltx75RdZnc
— Gianni Smith (@GianniSmith19) February 20, 2024
Wisconsin is in good shape in the other special teams departments. Kicker Nathanial Vakos is back after a stellar 2023, and punter Atticus Bertrams returns after a so-so debut season in Madison.
The Badgers’ 2024 transfer class is heralded as one of the best in the nation. It is a group that must contribute immediately in 2024, especially if Wisconsin is to improve on 2023’s 7-6 record.
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