I CAN’T BELIEVE HE IS GOING: Preliminary Badgers 2026 Formal Visit: All Eyes on Quarterbacks Billy Edwards Jr in High-Stakes Recruiting Push leaving them till 2029 due to…Read more

In a surprising twist during Wisconsin’s Preliminary Badgers 2026 formal recruiting visit, rising quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. stole the spotlight — only to immediately break hearts with a stunning revelation: he’s unavailable until 2029.

The standout signal-caller, known for his strong pocket presence and leadership, attended the Badgers’ high-profile recruiting event earlier this month. Many believed the visit marked the beginning of a serious recruitment effort by Wisconsin to land a quarterback capable of anchoring their offense for years to come. But hopes were quickly dashed when it emerged that Edwards has committed to a path that delays his NCAA eligibility — or any potential transfer — until the 2029 season.

The Visit That Had Everyone Talking

Held at Camp Randall Stadium, the 2026 formal recruiting visit brought together top-tier talent from across the country. But no name generated more buzz than Billy Edwards Jr., a player who has already turned heads with his performances and poise under pressure.

Badger coaches, boosters, and fans were optimistic that the visit might be the first step toward securing the next great Wisconsin quarterback. But as one insider put it, “The room went quiet once word got around that he’s not coming — not now, not next year — not until 2029.”

Why 2029?

While the full details are still emerging, sources close to the situation suggest that Edwards is either pursuing a unique developmental track, returning to another program after a temporary academic or medical pause, or delaying full collegiate re-entry due to transfer eligibility and academic planning.

It’s also possible that Edwards is using this extended timeline to prepare for a serious push toward the NFL, opting for long-term development rather than immediate playtime.

Regardless of the reason, the outcome is clear: Wisconsin’s top quarterback target from the visit is off the table for the next three years.

Fan and Program Reaction

Wisconsin fans expressed a mix of disbelief and frustration online. Many had already imagined Edwards under center in a Badgers uniform, especially after footage surfaced of him interacting closely with offensive staff during the visit.

One fan tweeted, “He looked like he was already part of the team. Now we find out he’s not even playing until 2029? What a gut punch.”

Within the program, there’s now an urgent need to pivot to other quarterback targets. The 2026 class remains deep, but the Edwards situation underscores the unpredictability of modern recruiting — especially in the transfer portal era.

What’s Next for Wisconsin?

With Billy Edwards Jr. out of immediate reach, Wisconsin is expected to refocus on two or three other quarterback prospects, possibly including JUCO standouts and dual-threat options from the Southeast. Insiders say the staff remains optimistic but knows the window to lock down a true game-changer at the position is narrowing.

Head coach Luke Fickell hasn’t made any official comment on Edwards’ status, but sources close to the staff say they’re “disappointed, but not deterred.”

Final Word

While the headlines from Wisconsin’s 2026 visit could have been about a quarterback coup, the real story is about patience, planning, and the long game. Billy Edwards Jr. may still wear a college uniform — maybe even Wisconsin’s — but fans will have to wait until at least 2029 to find out.