Wisconsin’s quarterback depth was an issue during spring practice. As it turns out, that will likely carry over into the 2012 season.
Coach Bret Bielema confirmed Wednesday that QBs Jon Budmayr and Bart Houston are both expected to miss the fall with hip and shoulder injuries, respectively. Budmayr had been dealing with a nerve issue in the elbow of his throwing arm, an injury that caused him to miss all of last season, but now needs hip surgery.
“So the chances of him being involved next year are slim to none,” Bielema said.
Houston, a highly-touted recruit in the Badgers’ 2012 signing class, had shoulder surgery this offseason. Though Bielema previously said he expected his new QB to be available (but limited) for fall camp, Houston now has a spring 2013 prognosis.
The injuries leave the Badgers with three healthy QBs: Maryland transfer Danny O’Brien, Joe Brennan and walk-on Joel Stave. Backup Curt Phillips is still recovering from knee surgery. Suffice to say, the pressure’s going to be on O’Brien to stay healthy for Wisconsin this fall*.
(*yeah, I know what Bielema said about O’Brien not being promised the starting job. Pfft...)
(Hat tip: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel)