Wisconsin Adds Former Syracuse Linebacker Leon Lowery to Roster

Wisconsin has made its first addition of the transfer portal season with the commitment of linebacker Leon Lowery from Syracuse. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development:

Lowery’s Impressive Stats and Experience

• Lowery finished his redshirt sophomore season at Syracuse with 46 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. He has played in 27 career games, starting in 14 of them, and still has two years of eligibility remaining.
• Lowery’s former coach at Syracuse, Dino Babers, was fired in November, which allowed him to enter the transfer portal early. After receiving scholarship offers from six schools, including Wisconsin, Lowery ultimately chose the Badgers after visiting their campus.
• Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 239 pounds, Lowery brings size and strength to the Wisconsin defense.

Badgers fans stand up!!!!!!! #committed @BadgerFootball pic.twitter.com/Dipb52v5Dp

— Leon Lowery Jr (@leonlowery5) December 3, 2023

Impact on Wisconsin’s Defense

Wisconsin’s defense has been in need of additional playmakers, and Lowery’s arrival is expected to provide the lift they need. As an outside linebacker, Lowery will fill the void left by departing player C.J. Goetz, who started for the Badgers for two years. Lowery started in all 12 games for Syracuse this season.

Wisconsin’s Outside Linebacker Depth

Lowery’s attributes, including his effort, energy, and ability to play in space and rush the passer off the edge, impressed Wisconsin outside linebackers coach Matt Mitchell. With only Darryl Peterson, Jeff Pietrowski, and Kaden Johnson having experience at the position, Lowery’s addition brings much-needed depth to the team.

“I see what coach (Luke) Fickell is doing,” Lowery said. “He’s a winning coach. You can see what he did with Cincinnati. He turned a not good football program into competing for a national title. I just believe in him. Just their interest in me, they made me feel like family.

“I could tell that they don’t want me — they needed me. They want me to come there and they want to develop me, and that’s what I like. I just want to be there. I want to be a part of that mentality with my position coach and just get to work.”

Lowery expressed his excitement about joining Wisconsin’s program after visiting the campus and meeting the coaches and players. He praised the program’s organization, beautiful facilities, and winning mentality. He plans to move in by the end of December to participate in offseason workouts following the team’s bowl game.

Conclusion

Wisconsin’s acquisition of Leon Lowery from Syracuse is a significant addition to their defense. With impressive stats and experience, Lowery is expected to make an immediate impact as an outside linebacker. His commitment brings depth to the position and aligns with Wisconsin’s goal of winning football games and developing talented players.

Required Reading

(Photo: David Jensen / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)