In September, Wisconsin made Watertown high school lineman John Clifford a preferred walk-on offer to play football for the Badgers next season. On Tuesday, the three-year varsity starter announced his plans to continue his playing career in Madison.

Clifford received offers from two Division II schools in Minnesota and a couple of lower level Division I programs. But with the preferred walk-on status, he has the ability to earn a scholarship with the Badgers.

While at Watertown, Clifford is familiar with current Badgers in Stoughton’s Jack Nelson and Grafton’s JP Benzschawel.

“Jack Nelson is one I remember,” Clifford said. “He was pretty good when I played against him, sophomore year for homecoming. Grafton, I didn’t go against him too many times, but he was good.”