Two starting caliber Wisconsin defensive backs in Hunter Wohler and Alexander Smith will not be available versus Illinois, but are inching closer to a return.

Wohler earned his first career start in the Badgers’ opener but was sidelined with a right leg injury. The injury was not as severe as it first appeared to be, and Wohler has now been seen walking without crutches or a boot, according to Jeff Potrykus of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Potrykus also said that Smith has gone without the sleeve that he has been wearing due to a hamstring injury.

The Badgers could use all of the secondary help it can get after allowing 52 points to Ohio State. The Badgers face Illinois as former coach Bret Bielema returns to campus.