Overview
- Athletic director Chris McIntosh told ESPN and informed the team Thursday that Fickell will return in 2026, with evaluation of the program ongoing.
- The Badgers are 2-6 overall and 0-5 in Big Ten play on a six-game skid after consecutive October shutouts, and Fickell is 15-19 at Wisconsin.
- Retaining Fickell avoids a reported buyout of more than $25 million this offseason, with some outlets citing about $27 million.
- Leaders outlined added funding for infrastructure, staffing, and roster support, including player retention and recruiting in the revenue-share and NIL era.
- Reaction from fans on social media skewed negative, as university officials also noted persistent injuries, particularly at quarterback, as context for the slide.