Wisconsin Football Leaves Door Open to a Chez Mellusi Return in 2024

Originally posted on Badger Notes | By Dillon Graff | Last updated 11/21/23

The absence of running back Chez Mellusi from the Wisconsin football senior day roster against Nebraska sparked curiosity, prompting discussions about his potential return in 2024 via a medical redshirt.

Luke Fickell didn’t delve into specifics regarding Mellusi’s future plans but was asked about him during his weekly media availability.

“You know, he just didn’t feel like he was gonna be out there,” Fickell relayed. “Whatever hangs in the balance for him. There’s a lot of guys that are like that. Had some conversations with some guys this last week or so, and not trying to put the cart before the horse, just kinda said, ‘hey, let’s make sure you don’t make any decisions before this thing’s all said and done. Don’t make emotional decisions.’ He was initially on the list for a while there, and there’s a lot of those kinda guys that will have to make decisions.”

Wisconsin left running back Chez Mellusi off its list of senior day honorees.

Read as much or as little into it as you’d like. pic.twitter.com/qAlECqgpg3

— Dillon Graff (@DillonGraff) November 15, 2023

Wisconsin Football Leaves the Door Open to a Chez Mellusi Return

After a solid start to the year, Wisconsin football running back Chez Mellusi was sidelined by a season-ending leg injury against Purdue.

Mellusi’s impact when healthy was significant, amassing 51 carries for 307 yards with an impressive 6.0 yards per carry and scoring four rushing touchdowns. He seemed like a perfect fit in Phil Longo’s spread offense — and would have played a crucial role in a 1B role for the Badgers.

With the possibility of a receiving a medical hardship, Mellusi could secure an extra year of eligibility — and it seems clear that the Badgers coaching staff is putting the ball in his court and not closing that door entirely.

Anticipating Braelon Allen’s departure for the NFL draft, Wisconsin football will almost assuredly seek alternatives to lead their running game next season.

Current options like Jackson Acker, Cade Yacamelli, Nate White, or even the trio of incoming freshmen in the 2024 recruiting class could step up — but having a proven player to help lead the otherwise inexperienced RB room would be invaluable.

Mellusi’s return remains uncertain — but it seems like the new coaches plan on leaving the light on for him.

This article first appeared on Badger Notes and was syndicated with permission.

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