Wisconsin QB Tyler Van Dyke Enters Transfer Portal: What’s Next?
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Wisconsin quarterback Tyler Van Dyke is officially entering the NCAA transfer portal, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The announcement came Monday afternoon, and it’s safe to say this decision will have ripple effects across the 2024 transfer cycle.
Van Dyke, a fifth-year quarterback, had a short-lived stint with the Badgers. He appeared in just three games this season before a knee injury against Alabama on September 14 ended his campaign prematurely. Despite the setback, Van Dyke’s career numbers are nothing short of impressive. With 7,891 career passing yards and 55 touchdown passes, he enters the portal as one of the most experienced and accomplished quarterbacks available, boasting one year of eligibility remaining.
A Rollercoaster Journey for Van Dyke
Van Dyke’s time in Madison was brief but eventful. After transferring from Miami in December 2023, he was named Wisconsin’s starting quarterback on August 14, beating out sophomore Braden Locke in a competitive preseason battle. In his three starts for the Badgers, Van Dyke completed 43 of 68 passes for 422 yards and a touchdown. However, his season came to an abrupt halt during the opening drive of Wisconsin’s 42-10 loss to Alabama in Week 3.
It’s worth noting that Van Dyke’s college career has been a tale of highs and lows. He burst onto the scene at Miami in 2021, stepping in for the injured D’Eriq King and throwing for 2,931 yards, 25 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. His stellar performance earned him ACC Rookie of the Year honors. But the following seasons were marred by injuries and inconsistency. In 2023, Van Dyke threw a career-high 12 interceptions and was benched in favor of backup Emory Williams, only to regain the starting role after Williams suffered a season-ending injury.
Wisconsin’s Quarterback Conundrum
Van Dyke’s departure leaves Wisconsin with some big questions at quarterback. Braden Locke, who took over after Van Dyke’s injury, started the final nine regular-season games. While Locke showed flashes of potential, his numbers—1,936 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions—highlighted the struggles of a Wisconsin offense that never found its rhythm. The Badgers finished 12th in scoring among Big Ten teams, averaging just 22.6 points per game, and ranked 97th nationally in scoring offense. The lackluster performance led to the firing of offensive coordinator Phil Longo on November 17, one day after a 16-13 loss to No. 1 Oregon.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin’s quarterback depth chart includes Locke and freshman Mabrey Mettauer, who was ESPN’s No. 8 dual-threat passer in the Class of 2024. The Badgers also bolstered their roster during the early signing period, adding four-star recruit Carter Smith (No. 157 in the ESPN 300) and three-star quarterback Landyn Locke. With a 5-7 record to close out the 2024 season, Wisconsin will need to find stability at the quarterback position to turn things around in 2025.
What’s Next for Van Dyke?
As Van Dyke enters the transfer portal, he becomes one of the most intriguing names in the 2024 cycle. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 225 pounds, he brings size, experience, and a proven track record to the table. His 33 career games played make him a valuable asset for any program in need of a veteran presence under center.
For Van Dyke, the 2025 season will mark his sixth year in college football. While his time at Wisconsin didn’t pan out as expected, his talent and leadership qualities are undeniable. The big question now is: where will he land? With one year of eligibility left, Van Dyke has the opportunity to make a significant impact at his next destination, and programs across the country will undoubtedly be vying for his services.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Van Dyke is entering the NCAA transfer portal with one year of eligibility remaining.
- He has 7,891 career passing yards and 55 touchdown passes across 33 games.
- Van Dyke’s departure leaves Wisconsin with Braden Locke, Mabrey Mettauer, and two incoming recruits at quarterback.
- Wisconsin’s offense struggled in 2024, finishing 12th in the Big Ten in scoring and leading to the firing of offensive coordinator Phil Longo.
As the transfer portal heats up, all eyes will be on Van Dyke and where he chooses to continue his college football journey. One thing is certain: his decision will be a major storyline heading into the 2025 season.
Originally Written by: Pete Thamel
