Wisconsin football: Rachad Wildgoose declares for 2021 NFL Draft, opts out of the remainder of the season

In a surprise move, Wisconsin Badgers junior cornerback Rachad Wildgoose announced via Twitter on Friday that he is declaring for the 2021 NFL Draft and will forego the rest of his eligibility in Madison.

“I may be taking the next step in my journey, but I will always love the University of Wisconsin. A piece of my heart will always remain in Madison. Having said that, I have decided to declare for the 2021 NFL Draft. I love you all and On, Wisconsin,” Wildgoose wrote.

The Florida native had played in two of Wisconsin’s three game this year, recording six tackles, two tackles for loss and one pass defended. For his career, Wildgoose had 57 tackles, five tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, one interception and 15 passes defended.

Throughout his career in Madison, Wildgoose played both in the slot and outside which should help his draft stock as he’s proved to be versatile. The last Wisconsin cornerback to to leave early to enter the NFL Draft was Nick Nelson who was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round in 2017.

Coming into this season Wildgoose was in a stiff competition for a starting spot, which he won, due to the excellent depth that the Badgers have at the corner position. Now Faion Hicks and Caesar Williams will most likely assume the two starting spots moving forward.

The Badgers are back in action next Saturday against the Indiana Hoosiers.