Paul Chryst is getting his team ready for the 2022 season. Though the Badgers lost some key pieces from the defensive unit, Chryst still believes there are some leaders returning to the field this year.

One area where Chryst is especially positive for Wisconsin heading into fall camp is at outside linebacker. He admitted he is excited for the players and the depth in the group and took time to point out the leadership of Nick Herbig.

Now entering his 3rd year in Madison, Herbig is coming off a year where he had 14.5 TFL and 9 sacks. He is also a key leader for the team.

“He is a big, big leader for us,” said Chryst. “Herbie loves playing the game and loves competition. Works his tail off and that’s why guys respect him and why he’s a respected leader.

“What I want from a lot of our leaders is I want this team’s personality to be a reflection of them…(Herbig) wouldn’t ask one thing of his teammates that he wouldn’t ask of himself.”

In addition to his comments on Wisconsin’s linebackers, Chryst also shared his expectations for QB Graham Mertz entering the year.