Outside linebacker CJ Goetz returns for Wisconsin football
Luke Fickell gets a sixth year senior back at a position Wisconsin needed additional depth
Outside linebacker is one of the positions Luke Fickell may have needed more depth in his first season as head coach of Wisconsin football. Until this week, the Badgers could have had only two scholarship OLBs who were juniors or older.
Now, the Badgers have more depth at the position as CJ Goetz announced his return for a sixth season. The 6'3" Muskego, WI native has played in 46 games at Wisconsin, including 13 last season. His 61 total tackles were the third most on the team, including nine tackles for loss and two sacks.
2022 was Goetz's breakout season. Before 2022, he recorded 28 tackles in 33 games. Wisconsin will need Goetz to maintain his high level of play as it attempts to replace the production of Nick Herbig. Herbig declared for the NFL draft after leading the nation in sacks per game and leading the Big Ten in tackles for loss per game. According to CFB film room, Herbig led the Big Ten in pressure rate.
This article was originally published as part of the January 20, 2023 edition of the ‘Sconnie Six Pack.