Wisconsin Badgers OT Jack Nelson Declares for 2025 NFL Draft, Reflects on Underwhelming Senior Season
The Wisconsin Badgers football program has seen its share of standout talent over the years, and now, one of its key offensive linemen, Jack Nelson, is preparing to take the next step in his football journey. On March 8, 2025, Nelson officially announced his decision to declare for the NFL Draft, forgoing his final year of eligibility with the Badgers. However, his exit from college football comes with a bittersweet reflection on his senior season, where he felt his true potential wasn’t fully realized.
A Promising Career
Nelson, a native of Kimberly, Wisconsin, arrived at the University of Wisconsin with high expectations, both from fans and coaches alike. As a highly rated recruit, he quickly became a cornerstone of the Badgers’ offensive line. Throughout his career, Nelson was widely praised for his blend of size, strength, and agility, making him one of the most respected offensive tackles in college football.
By the end of the 2024 season, Nelson had earned numerous accolades, including being a two-time All-Big Ten honoree. His performance on the field earned him a reputation as a powerful and dependable player, capable of both run-blocking and protecting the quarterback in pass protection. His leadership and experience were instrumental in maintaining the strength of the Badgers’ offensive line for multiple seasons.
Frustration with His Final Season
Despite the individual recognition and his considerable talent, Nelson’s final season in Madison, 2024, left him feeling unfulfilled. While the Badgers’ offense had its share of struggles, Nelson was particularly vocal about his belief that his skills and abilities were not fully utilized under the team’s offensive scheme.
“I really feel like my best football wasn’t shown this year,” Nelson said in a statement. “I’ve worked hard throughout my career, and I know I have more to offer. The offense we ran in 2024 didn’t allow me to showcase everything I’m capable of. I don’t want to say it was frustrating, but it was definitely disappointing to know that I couldn’t play to my full potential.”
This sentiment echoes some of the struggles that the Badgers’ offense faced as a whole during the season. Under offensive coordinator Phil Longo, the team tried to adapt to a more pass-heavy scheme, which some believed did not suit Wisconsin’s traditional strength in power-running and offensive line dominance. With a new system in place, many players, including Nelson, found themselves adjusting to a style of play that may not have maximized their strengths.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the challenges of his final year, Nelson’s potential remains undeniable. At 6-foot-6, 320 pounds, he possesses all the physical attributes NFL scouts look for in a top-tier offensive lineman. His strength, combined with a quick first step and solid technique, has drawn attention from several NFL teams, and many analysts believe he is poised to be a high pick in the upcoming draft.
Nelson’s decision to leave college a year early also speaks to his belief in his ability to succeed at the professional level. With NFL rosters increasingly in need of versatile and capable offensive linemen, Nelson’s skills could be a significant asset to any team in need of a powerful tackle who can protect the quarterback and open running lanes.
“I feel like I’m ready to take that next step,” Nelson commented. “I’ve put in the work, and I’ve learned a lot over the past few years. It’s been an honor to play for Wisconsin, and I’ll always cherish my time there, but now it’s time for me to pursue my dream of playing in the NFL.”
What’s Next for Wisconsin?
With Nelson’s departure, the Badgers will need to rebuild their offensive line for the 2025 season. Wisconsin’s offensive line has been a hallmark of their program for decades, and losing a player of Nelson’s caliber will certainly be a challenge. However, the team is known for developing talent, and head coach Luke Fickell and his staff will likely continue to emphasize the importance of the offensive line in their program moving forward.
As for Nelson, he will now begin the process of preparing for the NFL Draft, where he will look to showcase his talents in front of scouts and coaches from around the league. His time in Madison may not have ended the way he had hoped, but his journey to the NFL is just beginning—and it’s one that has the potential to be filled with success at the next level.
In a year where change has been a central theme for Wisconsin football, Jack Nelson’s departure marks another step in the evolution of the program and a testament to the ever-evolving world of college football, where players are always striving to reach their highest potential—both on and off the field.
