Jack Nelson prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, building on his strong Wisconsin football legacy and standout college career

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one player from the University of Wisconsin stands out in the conversation: Jack Nelson. A standout offensive lineman, Nelson has developed into one of the most highly regarded prospects from the Big Ten, and his journey through Wisconsin football has been nothing short of impressive. Known for his physicality, versatility, and football intelligence, Nelson’s transition from college football to the NFL will be one of the most closely followed storylines of the 2025 draft.

This article will explore Jack Nelson’s journey through Wisconsin football, his standout moments as a Badger, how his skills have positioned him as a top prospect, and what his legacy at Wisconsin means for the program moving forward. As he prepares for the next chapter in his career, Nelson’s impact on Wisconsin football and the NFL’s evaluation of him will be of significant importance.

The Wisconsin Legacy: A Football Tradition

The University of Wisconsin has long been a powerhouse in college football, producing notable players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. From Hall of Fame running backs like Ron Dayne to dominant offensive linemen such as Joe Thomas, Wisconsin has established itself as a program capable of developing elite football talent. The Badgers’ reputation for producing NFL-caliber players, particularly in the trenches, has only grown in recent years.

Jack Nelson is now poised to continue that tradition, following in the footsteps of some of Wisconsin’s most legendary offensive linemen. As an offensive tackle, Nelson’s role in the Badgers’ offensive line has been pivotal in creating one of the most formidable and consistent units in college football. The team’s success in the Big Ten, bolstered by a strong running game and solid pass protection, has been driven by players like Nelson.

Nelson’s decision to join Wisconsin as part of the class of 2020 signified the beginning of his rise through the program. Wisconsin head coach Paul Chryst and offensive line coach Bob Bostad were instrumental in bringing Nelson into the fold. Their long-standing emphasis on developing a tough, physical offensive line culture aligned perfectly with Nelson’s strengths, setting the stage for his future success.

The Early Years: A Promising Start

Jack Nelson’s journey to the NFL Draft wasn’t an overnight success. His story began with a strong high school career at Kettle Moraine High School in Hartland, Wisconsin, where he was recognized as one of the top recruits in the state. A multi-sport athlete, Nelson excelled on the football field and was a consensus four-star recruit. He initially committed to Wisconsin due to his affinity for the school’s football culture, its focus on developing offensive linemen, and the Badgers’ proximity to home.

Nelson wasted little time making an impact at Wisconsin. He redshirted during his freshman year in 2020, but quickly emerged as one of the most promising linemen on the roster. By his sophomore year in 2021, Nelson was already playing a significant role on the starting offensive line. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique made him an immediate contributor to the Badgers’ ground game.

By the time Nelson was a junior, he had firmly established himself as one of the top offensive tackles in the country. Wisconsin’s offensive line, which has long been a strength for the program, benefitted from Nelson’s leadership and physical play. The Badgers were consistently ranked among the top teams in rushing yards, and much of that success was thanks to Nelson’s blocking and ability to protect the quarterback.

Nelson’s ability to excel both in run-blocking and pass protection set him apart from many of his peers, and by his junior season, NFL scouts began to take notice. They were impressed by his size, his mobility, and his ability to protect the edge against some of the best defensive players in college football.

The 2023 and 2024 Seasons: Proving His Worth

The 2023 and 2024 seasons were critical for Jack Nelson as he cemented his status as a top NFL Draft prospect. In his final two years at Wisconsin, Nelson showcased his full range of skills, taking on tougher opponents and facing some of the best pass rushers in college football. His performances against top-ranked teams like Ohio State, Penn State, and Michigan helped raise his profile as one of the top offensive linemen in the nation.

One of Nelson’s standout qualities is his versatility. While he is best known as a tackle, he has shown the ability to excel at guard as well, giving him increased value in the eyes of NFL scouts. His ability to play both tackle and guard at a high level makes him an attractive prospect for NFL teams looking for an offensive lineman who can fit into various schemes. His versatility, combined with his physicality and football IQ, makes him one of the more well-rounded players available in the 2025 draft class.

Throughout his senior season in 2024, Nelson continued to refine his craft. He played with an edge, using his size and strength to dominate defenders in both the run and pass game. His ability to block for running backs, especially in the Wisconsin system, allowed the Badgers’ offense to remain balanced and difficult to stop. At the same time, Nelson’s ability to protect the quarterback in passing situations became a point of emphasis as he prepared for the next level.

Nelson was consistently praised by coaches for his high football IQ, leadership on and off the field, and his work ethic. He quickly became the anchor of the Wisconsin offensive line, a player others could rely on for guidance. His consistency and effort earned him All-Big Ten honors and recognition as one of the top offensive tackles in the country. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it is clear that Nelson is not only a highly talented player but also a player with the right mindset and mentality to succeed at the next level.

NFL Draft Prospects: What Scouts Are Saying

With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, Jack Nelson’s name is being mentioned frequently among the top offensive line prospects. While the draft class is filled with talented players, Nelson is widely regarded as one of the premier tackles available, and many experts expect him to be selected in the first or second round.

At 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds, Nelson has the prototypical size for an NFL offensive tackle. He has the length and wingspan to protect the edge against speed rushers, while his strength and balance allow him to drive defenders off the ball in the running game. NFL scouts have praised his quickness and agility, which allows him to match up well against both speed and power rushers. In a league that values athleticism on the offensive line, Nelson’s combination of size and mobility stands out.

One of the biggest strengths that NFL teams value in Nelson is his football IQ. As an offensive lineman, it’s not just about raw strength and athleticism—understanding the game, recognizing defensive schemes, and making quick adjustments are just as important. Nelson’s ability to diagnose and react to defensive fronts is one of the reasons why he’s so highly regarded by NFL scouts.

Furthermore, Nelson’s work ethic and leadership have been cited as key reasons for his success at Wisconsin. NFL teams are looking for players who not only have the physical tools but also the mentality and character to succeed in the professional ranks. Nelson has displayed the kind of dedication to his craft that teams love to see, and his leadership on the Wisconsin offensive line has not gone unnoticed.

In addition to his individual talent, Nelson’s experience in a pro-style offense at Wisconsin is another asset that should help him make a smooth transition to the NFL. Wisconsin’s offense requires its offensive linemen to be versatile, to be able to run-block effectively, and to pass-protect in critical situations. Nelson’s ability to do all of these things will give him an advantage as he prepares to make the leap to the NFL.

What’s Next for Jack Nelson?

As the NFL Draft draws closer, Jack Nelson is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing prospects. The process leading up to the draft will be intense, as he undergoes interviews with NFL teams, participates in the NFL Scouting Combine, and showcases his skills in individual workouts. His performance in these events will likely solidify his status as a first-round prospect.

Off the field, Nelson will continue to train, focusing on improving areas of his game that will help him succeed at the next level. His time at Wisconsin has prepared him for the challenge, but transitioning to the NFL is always a difficult task. Teams will be looking for linemen who are not only physically gifted but also mentally tough and adaptable. Nelson’s experience at Wisconsin has given him the tools to handle the transition, but it will still require a continued commitment to improving his craft.

Ultimately, the 2025 NFL Draft represents the culmination of Jack Nelson’s journey from a highly touted recruit at Wisconsin to one of the top prospects in his class. As he looks ahead to a promising future in the NFL, Nelson’s legacy at Wisconsin is secure. He has contributed to the success of one of the nation’s top football programs, and his development as a player has earned him the opportunity to continue his career at the highest level of the sport.