Luke Fickell Says Tyler Van Dyke 'Will Be In Our Plans' For Next Season

In head coach Luke Fickell's press conference on Monday, he said that quarterback Tyler Van Dyke would be a part of their plans for next season.

Van Dyke underwent surgery today for a torn ACL he suffered in the Badgers' loss to Alabama on September 14th. And although Fickell and company have not had direct talks with him, they seem to be planning on having the quarterback for another season.

"We love Tyler and we love what he's done," said Fickell. "And hopefully if there's an opportunity that he would come back, he would have that chance and we'll put a plan in place for that."

if Van Dyke chooses to use a medical redshirt, he would still have another year of eligibility, and it appears Fickell would welcome him back if he chooses. But as much as the staff might want Van Dyke to return, he may opt to turn professional or even transfer. There's still a lot of time for each side to determine their futures, but whether or not Van Dyke returns will have several variables.

The development of Braedyn Locke or even freshman Mabrey Mettauer could influence the decision. There's also the small possibility that Fickell or offensive coordinator Phil Longo aren't employed by Wisconsin in 2025 depending on how the remainder of the season goes.

Fans will most likely be split on how the team handles Van Dyke. He provides a veteran presence with proven ability, but he also was mostly unimpressive in his short audition with the team this season. He finished with 422 yards and one touchdown in just over two games. A younger, but unproven player like Mettauer may draw more attention from the fans hoping for a new direction with the team.

It's a long way off, but the Badgers and Tyler Van Dyke will have some large decisions looming at the end of the season.