Wisconsin Football Spring Game 2017: 5 things to watch for

2. Who takes the starting cornerback job left open by Sojourn Shelton? 

A major part of Wisconsin’s success on the defensive end was a veteran secondary, which surrendered just 6.5 yards per pass attempt a year ago.

Leonhard will face the challenge of replacing the two best players from the secondary, as safety Leo Musso and cornerback Sojourn Shelton were both lost to graduation. Senior Natrell Jamerson appears to be in line to take over for Musso after converting to safety this offseason, but the starting cornerback job opposite Derrick Tindal is up for grabs.

With Jamerson switching from cornerback, the depth chart is a little thin on experience, which will be a storyline to watch this season. Three-star recruit Ceaser Williams will get a first chance at playing time following a redshirt season in 2016, while senior Lubern Figaro could line up all over the place after appearing in 23 career games at safety.

Both have some work to do, as Hawaii transfer, Nick Nelson has earned the praise of the coaching staff as the favorite to ascend to the top of the depth chart. Nelson started 21 games with Hawaii over two years while racking up 20 pass defenses, and could help Wisconsin be just as successful in 2017 if he can adjust to the Badgers’ scheme.

Jamerson and Nelson will both be worth watching on Friday, as the Badgers could be in a little trouble should either struggle in their new role.