Sometimes the best decisions are the ones we make twice. In Madison, Wisconsin, that's exactly what happened when Charles Perkins, a standout defensive tackle for the Badgers, had a change of heart that delighted fans and coaches alike.

Just one day after announcing his intention to enter the transfer portal, the 6-foot-2, 312-pound powerhouse decided his home was right where he'd been all along. His agent confirmed to CBS Sports on Friday, January 9, 2026, that Perkins would be staying put with the Badgers, ready to anchor their defensive line for the upcoming season.

The timing of Perkins' initial announcement had certainly raised eyebrows. Head coach Luke Fickell had just told reporters he believed all retained players not already in the portal were committed for the season. "Everybody that was currently on our roster that isn't in the transfer portal I think is signed," Fickell said on January 8. Little did he know that within hours, one of his key players would briefly reconsider, only to reaffirm his commitment the very next day.

What makes this story particularly uplifting is what it says about loyalty and second thoughts in college athletics. In an era where the transfer portal has become almost routine, Perkins' quick reversal shows that sometimes, after stepping back and reflecting, athletes realize the grass isn't always greener elsewhere.

The Bright Side

For Wisconsin, Perkins' decision to stay represents more than just keeping a talented player on the roster. It's a vote of confidence in the program and a boost to team morale heading into the season. The interior defensive line had been identified as a position of need, making Perkins' return all the more significant.

Together with rising junior Dillan Johnson, Perkins now forms the backbone of the Badgers' returning defensive tackle rotation. The team has also strengthened this crucial position by welcoming three talented transfers: Junior Poyser from Buffalo, Hammond Russell IV from West Virginia, and Jake Anderson from Illinois State. With Perkins' decision to stay, Wisconsin now boasts impressive depth at a critical position.

This story reminds us that commitment isn't always a straight line. Sometimes we need to explore our options to truly appreciate what we have. Perkins took that mental journey in record time, and the Badgers are all the better for his return. His decision speaks to the culture being built in Madison, one that players ultimately don't want to leave.

As the new season approaches, Badgers fans can celebrate not just the talent Perkins brings to the field, but the character he's shown in recognizing where he truly belongs. In a world of constant change, there's something beautiful about choosing to stay and build something special right where you are.