The University of Wisconsin Badgers are set to bring back a piece of their offensive history for the 2026 season. The program has officially reinstated the fullback position on its roster, a spot that has been absent since the 2022 campaign.
A Position Reclaimed
Wisconsin’s game notes for the upcoming opener list Tyler Jansey and McCoy Smith as fullbacks, marking the first time the role has been explicitly assigned since the early 2020s. The move revives a tradition that stretches back to early legends such as Mark Montgomery and Cecil Martin, and later standouts like Matt Bernstein, Bradie Ewing, Derek Watt and Alec Ingold.
Among the current cohort, Jackson Acker is listed as a tight end but is expected to function as a fullback in the offensive scheme, a dual role that reflects the flexibility coach Jeff Grimes has been emphasizing. Nate Letton, another newcomer on the roster, is expected to provide depth at the position.
Looking Ahead
With the fullback back in the mix, the Badgers hope to blend power running with play‑action threats, creating mismatches that could open up the passing game. The experiment will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike as the team opens the season.