A true legend of Wisconsin football in every sense of the word has decided it’s time to move on. On Tuesday night, Badgers defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard announced he would be leaving after Wisconsin’s bowl game against Oklahoma State.
Leonhard was considered by many to be the frontrunner for Wisconsin’s head coaching job and served as the interim head coach following Paul Chryst’s firing. He lead one of the best defenses in the country over the past six seasons.
Leonhard started his Wisconsin journey as a player, starring for the Badgers as a three-time First-team All-Big Ten selection (2002-04) and going on to a successful NFL career as a safety.
In the end, after a life dedicated to the Badgers, the Wisconsin native decided it was time to move on. Here is a look at Leonhard’s message to Badger nation:
On Wisconsin! pic.twitter.com/lkgkPWmrO1
— Jim Leonhard (@jimleonhard) December 7, 2022
How did players and others in the Wisconsin family react? Here is a look:
Coach Fickell and Chris McIntosh react:
Thank you for everything Coach Leonhard
Wishing nothing but the best for you and your family pic.twitter.com/XheJBKyVwx
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) December 7, 2022
Former Wisconsin S Eric Burrell
Thank you for everything coach, you taught me more than you’ll ever know… keep inspiring kids the right way 🖤🐐 https://t.co/Q9WHde8odS
— Eric Burrell (@EricBurrell_) December 7, 2022
Former Badger DE Matt Henningsen
One of the brightest and greatest men in the game, and an inspiration to all underdogs out there. I wouldn’t be where I am without Coach Leonhard. Thank you 🐐 https://t.co/2tmFP0bWNV
— Matt Henningsen (@matthenningsen) December 7, 2022
Wisconsin OLB Marty Strey:
Coach Leonhard gave me the opportunity to live out my dreams of playing college football. An…
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