On the defensive side of the football, the Wisconsin Badgers will have many new faces. Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Isaiah Mullens are the only returning starters from last season. Many starting spots particularly at linebacker are up for grabs. It will likely take longer than spring practice to make those determinations on who will be starting. However, one player who’s ready to breakout this season is linebacker Jordan Turner.
After being redshirted in 2020, Turner appeared in five games as a red-shirt sophomore last season. Despite being limited by injuries to just 24 snaps, he made two tackles and caught two interceptions. His interceptions led all Badger linebackers. The highlight of his season came in the Las Vegas Bowl against Arizona State. Despite not being on the two-deep going into the game, Turner made four tackles including one for a loss. All season, Turner made the most of his opportunities and he did that in the bowl game as well.
The Badgers 3-4 defense is heavily reliant on great linebacker play. Leo Chenal, Jack Sanborn and Noah Burks all provided that during their careers at Wisconsin. With the opportunities he had, Turner proved he could be productive. Turner is very athletic and is a thumper at the position. He has all the tools necessary to be successful in the heart of Jim Leonhard’s defense. The fact he was able to make the big plays in limited playing times proves the Badgers have a special player in Turner.
One thing that Turner might be able to provide the position is good pass coverage. This is something the Badgers have lacked from the position in recent years. Considering how pass happy the Big Ten has become, having a linebacker who can play well in coverage is crucial for success. Turner has great awareness in zone coverages and knowing where the quarterback is going to throw it.
In spring practice, Turner has been one of four linebackers spending much of the time with the first and second units. Jim Leonhard and the Badgers coaching staff clearly wants him to take the next step and be an impact player. Not only does Turner have an opportunity for a starting job this season, but he can also lockup the position for years to come.
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