Running back for the Wisconsin Badgers, shockingly, announces his return to the team in 2024.

The Wisconsin Badgers are renowned for turning out running backs who are ready for the NFL. Braelon Allen, a Fond Du Lac local, has already declared for the 2024 NFL Draft in an attempt to become the newest and greatest of them. Hopefully, he will play in the NFL next season with players like Melvin Gordon, Dare Ogunbowale, and Jonathan Taylor.

Although Allen had some ailments during the previous season, he was able to play most of the time. Unfortunately, Chez Mellusi, his backfield partner, was not able to achieve the same. This past year, when playing Purdue, the fifth-year running back sustained a horrific leg injury. Mellusi only participated in four games as a result.

It was a challenging blow for the Badgers and Mellusi. Mellusi had been on track to have one of his best collegiate seasons going into the injury, capping his limited season with 51 carries for 306 yards and four touchdowns in just four games. However, Wisconsin lost a potent tool that could have helped guide the team through its first season of change under new head coach Luke Fickell.

It was hard not to feel sorry for Mellusi, who, like Allen, had a legitimate shot at the NFL in the 2024 Draft. However, his injury meant that he probably would not have attracted much attention. Mellusi has made the decision to spend his last year of eligibility in Wisconsin as a result.

In 2024, Chez Mellusi will rejoin the Wisconsin Badgers

Mellusi committed to returning to Wisconsin for his last year of eligibility, head coach Luke Fickell said on Wednesday. Later, Mellusi personally shared the following on social media to reaffirm that choice:

“Dear Badger Family,

“I have so much to be grateful for here in Wisconsin.

“I need to thank my trainers, coaches, teammates, and family for everything they have done while supporting me through my setbacks. I want to thank God for leading me here and lighting the steps on the path to where I am today. Badger Nation, thank you for showing me so much love from the second I put on the Badger jersey. Playing for an amazing fanbase alongside my brothers is the greatest feeling and my most cherished memory.

“When I arrived at Wisconsin in 2021, I was just a kid from Florida on a mission to become the best player and person I could be. There are so many people here who have helped me reach for that dream every single day and will always be thankful for their belief in me, wearing the jersey or not. Speaking of dreams, for as long as I can remember, I’ve always dreamed of playing at the highest level possible and getting a chance to compete in the NFL.

“But I’m not done dreaming in Wisconsin.

“I’m excited to announce that I will be returning for the 2024 season. I can’t wait for one last go around in Camp Randall with my teammates.

“Love, 1”

The 2024 season will be Mellusi’s sixth and final year of college football. He spent his first two years at Clemson before transferring to Wisconsin in 2021.