Starting safety Reggie Pearson was noticeably absent when Wisconsin released its 2020 roster. There was no explanation on the redshirt sophomore, who started in 13 of 14 games for the Badgers last season.

During a Zoom call with reporters, head coach Paul Chryst explained why Pearson was not listed on the new roster.

According to Jeff Potrykus of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Chryst said that Pearson is still enrolled at the school but he has a physical issue that was discovered during the offseason. He has not yet been cleared to play.

Pearson was a starter for the Badgers during the 2019 season as just a redshirt freshman. He finished the season with 60 tackles, 4 pass break-ups, 3.5 tackles for loss and 2 forced fumbles.

Whether or not Pearson will be able to return to the team is still unknown at this time.

Wisconsin is scheduled to open the 2020 season against Illinois.