Wisconsin starting outside linebacker Darryl Peterson announced on Monday his intention to return to the Badgers for the 2025 season.
The news comes as the NCAA transfer portal officially opened on Dec. 9. Peterson, center Jake Renfro and right tackle Riley Mahlman are now three key veterans to have announced their decision to stay for a final year.
Peterson initially joined the program as a four-star recruit in the class of 2021. He’s played in 41 total games over four seasons with the program, including in every game in 2022, 2023 and 2024. His career tallies include 104 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, four pass deflections and one fumble recovery.
His return is big news for a Wisconsin defensive line that is facing massive turnover entering 2025. Top contributors Elijah Hills (eligibility), Curt Neal (transfer portal) and James Thompson Jr. (transfer portal) are departing from the defensive tackle room, in addition to several from the pass-rushing group.
Wisconsin will need a statement final season from the veteran defensive end. The program struggled to pressure the quarterback through all of 2024, finishing with just 17 total sacks (No. 118 in the nation). Peterson accounted for just one of those sacks.
The Badgers are reportedly in the transfer market for experience and production at the position. Still, getting an establish veteran back is good news for a defense in need of a significant boost.
