Badgers starting guard remains out after offseason procedure
One Wisconsin starter has been hit with injuries early in his career.
Madison, Wisconsin - September 20: Wisconsin Badgers starting guard Emerson Mandell remains sidelined after undergoing an offseason procedure. The 2025 Class of 4-star recruit has yet to play in the fall, despite having a foot procedure in the spring following previous injuries. Head coach Luke Fickell acknowledged that Mandell's return would be a slow process, and the team is working to challenge themselves to determine when he will return to the field.
Mandell's injury has opened the opportunity for other guards, such as Blake Cherry and Stylz Blackmon, who were primarily the backups during the spring. These new guards have been given additional reps, which is beneficial for their development. Fickell emphasized the importance of competition and the benefits of having younger players challenge themselves.
He also highlighted the position's thinness on the roster and the challenges the team faces in developing these young players.
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