Badger of Honor
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Wisconsin Football Report: Top Badgers in the NFL

By Tanner Nestle

CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks scrambles out of the pocket during the first quarter of a presseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on August 18, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks scrambles out of the pocket during the first quarter of a presseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on August 18, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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Wisconsin Football Russell Wilson
SEATTLE, WA – OCTOBER 07: Quarterback Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks runs the ball in the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at CenturyLink Field on October 7, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

Russell Wilson

Seattle Seahawks – QB

Although only a Badger for one year, it was Wilson’s time in Madison that put him on the national stage and gave him an opportunity to pursue an NFL career. His shiftiness in and around the pocket, ability to throw off balance and his leadership abilities were put on full display in Madison. And those are what is helping him through a great NFL career so far.

Wilson is in his 7th season in Seattle and has yet to miss a single start. Until last year when the Seahawks went 9-7, he was a model of consistency leading his team to at least 10 wins every year. He’s recognized as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL year in and year out. He stands only 5’11 and has since become a pioneer for undersized quarterbacks in the league.

In college, before Wisconsin, Wilson was always a solid quarterback. But when he transferred to Madison his talents were unleashed. It’s debatable, but he has what might be the best single season in Wisconsin history. He completed over 72% of his passes for over 3,100 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only four interceptions. He also ran for six touchdowns and caught one more.

Wilson is a perfect example of the philosophy that I like to use to explain why Wisconsin football players frequently find success in the NFL. If you’re good at football, you simply just find a way. It doesn’t matter if you’re not big enough, or not strong enough, or not fast enough. If you’re good at football, then there are opportunities for you in the league. Wilson found his opportunity and he’s made the most of it.