Wisconsin transfer center signs with a Big Ten rival

5 days ago 1

Wisconsin transfer center Jake Renfro signed with Illinois, according to CBSSports' Chris Hummer.

Renfro entered the portal last week after three seasons with the Badgers. He began his career at Cincinnati in 2020, playing there under Luke Fickell from 2020-22 before leaving for Wisconsin. He then sat behind veteran starter Tanor Bortolini during his first year with the Badgers in 2023, before starting 12 games as the team's starter in 2024. Injuries would define his 2025 campaign, as he was limited to only four appearances.

The veteran center joins an Illinois program that went 9-4 in 2025. The program has registered three winning seasons in the last four years, including a 10-win 2024 campaign. Led by former Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema, the program is amid its most successful stretch in decades.

While Renfro will suit up for a conference rival, Wisconsin will not play Illinois in 2026, save for an unlikely Big Ten Championship game matchup.

Wisconsin recently filled its vacant starting center role, landing veteran Austin Kawecki from Oklahoma State. He'll be tasked with helping direct an offense that is looking to improve after finishing near the bottom of the sport in 2025.

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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football transfer Jake Renfro sign Illinois Fighting Illini

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