The 2025 Wisconsin Badgers will look very different than the 2024 sqaud, and that's probably a good thing. After a disappointing 5-7 season, the team will look to right the ship this year, and likely with a dozen or more new starters. On offense, a new quarterback and unproven running backs will be very interesting to watch. But who are the five best returning players on offense from last year's team?
OT Riley Mahlman
Mahlman is the best player on the offensive line and arguably the whole offense if he can regain some form this year. He allowed a team-high 17 pressures last year, so there is work to be done, but when he's on his game, he's an NFL caliber player. The 2024 Badger line wasn't as dominant as fans had hoped, but at 6-foot-8, 300-pounds, Mahlman possess the size and ability to be a top tackle in the Big Ten this year.
WR Vinny Anthony II
The Badgers' top returning receiver, Anthony II finished 2024 with 39 catches, 672 yards and four touchdowns. With Will Pauling off to Notre Dame, Anthony II could step into a No. 1 receiving role for the Badgers, although newcomer Jayden Ballard will certainly get his fair share of targets. A new quarterback under center doesn't hurt either.
OG Joe Brunner
The second of the the three returning offensive lineman to make this list, Brunner will be a key piece to this Badger offensive line. Not only can he play guard, but he does have some versatility to play tackle if needed as he showed this spring after the injury to Kevin Heywood.
C Jake Renfro
Renfro opted to return for another season with the Badgers and will put off his NFL pursuit for one more year. He's been a solid center for Wisconsin after missing nearly two years due to injuries and will be an important factor in protecting Luke Fickell's brand new quarterback.
WR Trech Kekahuna
Kekahuna initially announced his intentions to enter the transfer portal, but changed his mind and will return to Wisconsin for his redshirt sophomore season. He showed flashes last year, finishing the season with 25 catches, 339 yards and two touchdowns, and will now assume the starting slot receiver role. He definitely has huge breakout potential.