When Phil Longo got fired, I think the assumption was that the room would enter the portal. Here's what I'm hearing...
Cole LaCrue - Gone, already intends to enter the portal.
Braedyn Locke - Showed some improvement yesterday in an otherwise awful game. Wisconsin feels there is a decent chance he returns next season. He loves Wisconsin and the goal for him is to be a football coach after he graduates. Bringing in a new coordinator is an opportunity for him to learn a new offense and better prepare him for that. On top of that, UW is his best opportunity if he wants to continue to play at the Power 4 level and leave with a great degree.
Landyn Locke - If Braedyn stays, Landyn likely comes to Wisconsin as well, despite Carter Smith's commitment. Coming off an ACL injury with limited tape, he's kind of a wild card. A bit of a lottery ticket for the Badgers. Like Braedyn, his Power 4 opportunities are limited.
Mabrey Mettauer - I have been told that Mabrey told teammates he plans to follow Longo. There is, however, no guarantee Longo has a job next year, at least not at the Power 4 level.
Tyler Van Dyke - Still unknown an unknown right now. He was still mentioned in the conversation, though, which leads me to believe Wisconsin is keeping that option open.
.....
Even if everyone is willing to come back (and I know people are shouting at me right now saying that they don't want anyone back), the Badgers will still use to the portal to target a starter. But for me personally, I would welcome Braedyn back in a reserve roll with this team and add another body in Landyn. Same with Van Dyke if he is willing to roll the dice is that same scenario.