In just three days, the Wisconsin Badgers have lost two quarterbacks who will not be back for the 2025 season. That’s right, Tyler Van Dyke surprised many of us when it was announced that he would be entering the transfer portal. He was one and done in Madison.

As for Braedyn Locke, he said after the loss to Minnesota that he planned to stay here, but things have changed and he will also be applying to another program next fall. QB depth is suddenly a bit concerning for Luke Fickell and his coaching staff.

So what’s next for the Badgers? It’s obvious – Fickell needs to be aggressive once again against a QB in the portal to be his 2025 starter. There are also plenty of solid options, but the staff will need to act quickly to find replacements for Van Dyke and Locke.

One of the names that has been linked to UW was Conner Weigman, but we know the Texas A&M transfer won’t be a fit for the Badgers. Weigman was visiting Houston this week and has already decided to sign with the Cougars.

Still, there are plenty of other options, including Fernando Mendoza, Miller Moss, Matthew Sluka, Kaidon Salter and other potential targets. However, with visits taking place, players will surely make their decisions soon.

Fickell and new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes know this, which is why they have to act quickly here. Wisconsin’s new 2025 schedule was just released and this team is looking ahead to next season. It’s time to bring the brutal 2024 to an end, but a star QB will make the difference in making 25 potentially a year to remember. Fickell has to act quickly.