James Thompson Jr., a former defensive lineman for the Wisconsin Badgers, has announced his transfer to the Illinois Fighting Illini for his final season of college football. This move follows a wave of player departures for Wisconsin, with several key defenders entering the transfer portal. Thompson, a highly sought-after player, had garnered attention from multiple top-tier programs, including Tennessee, Texas A&M, Auburn, and Arkansas. After considering a range of offers and taking several visits, he ultimately decided to remain in the Big Ten and join Illinois, coached by Bret Bielema.
Thompson, a 6’7”, 290-pound lineman, had a strong career at Wisconsin, starting for multiple seasons. However, his 2024 season was derailed after suffering a torn pectoral muscle during fall camp, leaving a significant hole in Wisconsin’s defensive line. Prior to the injury, Thompson had been a key contributor to the defense, recording 52 tackles, 31 pressures, 12 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. His absence was keenly felt as the Badgers’ defensive line struggled with depth issues throughout the 2024 campaign.
At Illinois, Thompson will reunite with two other defensive transfers, Curt Neal and Leon Lowery, who are also joining the Fighting Illini this offseason. Together, they bring experience and depth to Illinois’ defensive front as they prepare for the upcoming season. Thompson’s decision to play for Illinois will allow him to stay within the Big Ten, where he has already gained significant experience. This continuity gives him the opportunity to compete against his former team when Illinois faces Wisconsin at Camp Randall Stadium next season.
Thompson’s transfer represents a notable loss for Wisconsin’s defense, which has already seen a number of departures. However, his decision to transfer to a Big Ten rival adds an intriguing layer to his college football journey. Illinois, under Bielema’s leadership, has shown promise, and Thompson will play a crucial role in their defensive efforts next season. His experience and size make him a key addition to the Fighting Illini’s roster.
As Thompson embarks on this new chapter with Illinois, his journey from Wisconsin to a Big Ten rival highlights the evolving nature of college football rosters. For Wisconsin, losing a player of Thompson’s caliber is a blow, but it also opens up opportunities for other players to step up. As for Thompson, he now has the chance to finish his college career strong and make an impact at Illinois, where he will aim to leave his mark on both the team and the Big Ten conference.
