MADISON – The Wisconsin Badgers have plenty to celebrate as they welcome an exciting new addition to their defensive lineup. Junior Poyser, a formidable 6-foot-1, 310-pound defensive lineman from Buffalo, committed to the team following an enthusiastic official visit this week, marking a tremendous win in the transfer portal cycle.

This commitment represents a perfect match for both the program and the player. Poyser, who will be a redshirt junior in 2026 with two full years of eligibility ahead of him, brings exactly the kind of experience and talent the Badgers were hoping to attract.

The timing couldn't be better for Wisconsin's defensive revitalization. While the program bids a respectful farewell to four accomplished senior interior linemen – Ben Barten, Jay'viar Suggs, Parker Petersen, and Brandon Lane – who completed stellar careers this season, Poyser's arrival ensures the defensive momentum continues strong. These departing seniors helped engineer a remarkable transformation, contributing to Wisconsin's leap from 41st to an impressive 24th in overall defense, with an even more dramatic improvement against the run, jumping from 91st to 15th nationally.

Poyser joins returning players Dillan Johnson, a rising junior, and redshirt senior Charles Perkins, creating an exciting core for the defensive line. What makes Poyser such an asset is his proven track record and remarkable stamina. Throughout the 2024 season, he demonstrated exceptional durability for a player his size, averaging an impressive 35.3 snaps per game according to Pro Football Focus – a testament to his conditioning and determination.

His contributions at Buffalo were substantial and consistent. This past season, Poyser started seven of twelve games, helping anchor a defense that ranked fifth overall in the Mid-American Conference and an impressive fourth in rushing yards per carry, allowing just 3.8 yards. His personal statistics speak volumes: 31 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and one forced fumble earned him well-deserved third-team All-Mid-American Conference honors.

Perhaps most valuable is Poyser's wealth of game experience. He arrives in Madison having played in 24 collegiate games, bringing maturity and battle-tested skills that will prove invaluable as he integrates into Wisconsin's defensive schemes.

The Badgers' coaching staff has every reason to be optimistic about what Poyser brings to the program. His combination of size, experience, and proven production makes him an ideal fit for Wisconsin's physical style of play. The fact that he chose Wisconsin after his official visit speaks volumes about the program's appeal and the vision coaches have shared for utilizing his talents.

As Wisconsin continues to build its roster through the transfer portal, Poyser's commitment sets an encouraging tone. The program is actively pursuing additional talent at the position, recognizing that rotating four to six quality players keeps everyone fresh and maintains the physical dominance Wisconsin football is known for.

This addition signals bright days ahead for Badgers football, as the program continues attracting top-tier talent committed to excellence both on and off the field.