Wisconsin Badgers land key special teams starter out of the transfer portal

Wisconsin Badgers add Toledo junior James Roe to compete for the starting long snapper position.

Oct 18, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers head coach Luke Fickell during warmups prior to the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Camp Randall Stadium. | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

The University of Wisconsin has found a new best friend for specialist Sean West.

Following the graduation of long snapper Nick Levy, the Badgers hosted, offered, landed a commitment, and signed from former Toledo long snapper James Roe on Tuesday.

After a great official visit to @BadgerFootball, I blessed to have been offered and to have signed with Wisconsin! Thank you @Coach_Mitch_ and @CoachCibene for this opportunity ‼️@SpecialTeamsU @Coach_Casper pic.twitter.com/tYY6xtlnfU

— James Roe (@JamesRoe73) January 13, 2026

A two-year starter with the Rockets, Roe has 26 games of experience and was named a Pro Football Focus a CFN Freshman All-American in 2024. Ranked a 4.5-star long snapper by Kohl's snapping in high school, Roe was a first-team all-region selection as a long snapper and honorable mention all-region at tight end as a senior, as well as a four-year letterwinner in wrestling at Kennesaw (GA) North Cobb.

Like many other positions on Wisconsin, special teams will be undergoing a makeover in 2026. In addition to the graduation of Levy, Wisconsin saw kickers Gavin Lahm and Nathanial Vakos exhaust their eligibility and punter Atticus Bettrams enter the transfer portal.

West is the only kicker currently listed on Wisconsin's active roster, while Roe joins redshirt senior Andrew Goodman as the two long snappers in the program. Goodman didn't see game action in 2025.

The addition of Roe puts Wisconsin at 27 known prospects who have committed out of the transfer portal.

Wisconsin #Badgers continue to stay active in the transfer portal. Keep up to date with info and stories on all the new transfers here ⬇️ https://t.co/F0Cp64Jxq1

— Benjamin Worgull (@TheBadgerNation) January 7, 2026

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