The Wisconsin Badgers football team is bracing for a big shakeup on their offensive line for 2026. Several starters from the 2025 squad are moving on, so there’s a real need to rebuild.
Key departures include left tackle Riley Mahlman, who’s heading to the 2026 NFL Draft. Joe Brunner and Jake Renfro have both entered the transfer portal, leaving some big shoes to fill.
Brunner, who mulled over entering the draft before deciding to return to college, is now a hot commodity. He’s likely to draw plenty of attention from top programs who want to beef up their offensive line.
Renfro, whose career has been riddled with injuries, has committed to the Illinois Fighting Illini for what will be his seventh year of college football. He’s certainly had a long journey so far.
Key Departures from the Wisconsin Badgers Offensive Line
The Badgers will lose several key players from their 2025 offensive line, making the 2026 rebuild even more urgent. Riley Mahlman, the left tackle, is out of eligibility and heading to the NFL Draft.
Mahlman’s exit stings, as he was really the anchor of that line. The Badgers will have to figure out how to replace his presence.
Joe Brunner’s Transfer Decision
Another major name leaving is Joe Brunner, who’s entered the transfer portal. He considered the draft but ended up choosing another year in college—just not in Madison.
Brunner’s move makes him one of the most sought-after linemen in the portal. Top programs are probably already lining up for him.
Jake Renfro’s Injury-Plagued Career
Jake Renfro has had a tough run with injuries. He missed all of 2022 at Cincinnati, then transferred to Wisconsin for 2023 but sat out again with lower-body injuries.
He finally started all 12 games in 2024, but another injury during 2025 fall camp limited him to just four appearances. Now, for his seventh year, he’s committed to Illinois.
Jake Renfro’s New Home: The Illinois Fighting Illini
Jake Renfro is heading to the Illinois Fighting Illini for 2026. Illinois is losing four starting offensive linemen, including center Josh Kreutz, so Renfro’s experience really matters here.
If he can stay healthy, he could be a plug-and-play starter for the Illini. That’s a big “if,” though, given his history.
Connections to Illinois
Renfro’s move to Illinois just makes sense. His father, Rick Renfro, played offensive line for the Illini back in the early ‘80s.
Plus, Renfro is an Illinois native, which should help him fit in and maybe even take on a leadership role right away.
Wisconsin’s Quick Replacement
Wisconsin didn’t waste much time finding a new center after Renfro left. They landed Oklahoma State center Austin Kawecki out of the transfer portal.
Kawecki’s in his final year of eligibility and is expected to step right in as the starting center in 2026. It’s a quick fix, but is it enough?
Conclusion
The 2026 season is shaping up to be a wild ride for both the Wisconsin Badgers and the Illinois Fighting Illini offensive lines. Wisconsin’s got some rebuilding to do after losing guys like Mahlman, Brunner, and Renfro.
On the flip side, Illinois gets a boost from Renfro’s experience and leadership. They’re scrambling to fill a few gaps in their line, but having someone like him around definitely helps.
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