Wisconsin isn't done adding from the portal, and they aren't even close. It's already up to eight players, and the last two have been two of the most important pieces to an improved offense. First, Luke Fickell added his "Plan A" quarterback in Colton Joseph and then immediately helped him out by adding one of the top centers in the transfer portal, Austin Kawecki.
Kawecki is currently listed as one of the top-10 available interior offensive linemen in the portal and one of the top two centers according to 24/7 Sports.
One of the best centers available. https://t.co/Q5FSfVRCHe
— Cooper Petagna (@cooperpetagna) January 4, 2026
Wisconsin adds Austin Kawecki out of Oklahoma State via the transfer portal
Related: 3 incredible reasons Colton Joseph fits Wisconsin like a glove
Kawecki is going into his final season of eligibility, listed as a redshirt senior. He brings experience and has played a lot of snaps as the starting center. For the last two seasons, he's been one of Oklahoma State's best offensive linemen. In 2025, he was the starting center, and PFF gave him a 76.8 pass-blocking grade.
If you are new to the PFF grading system, that's better than average and considered a quality starter. He also has experience at guard, but mostly played center for Oklahoma State.
It's a huge addition for the Badgers as they need help specifically at center for next season, and it's a perfect follow-up commitment to the quarterback Colton Joseph. It's a gift to him to add some of the big boys that will be protecting him. Especially at center, as they will need to work in tandem on snap counts and blocking calls.
Luke Fickell will still need to add a few more offensive linemen positions, as it was one of the weakest units last season. Getting a new OL coach in Eric Mateos is a big help, but now it's time to give him some of his big boys actually to coach.