One of Wisconsin football’s biggest question marks at the beginning of the 2026 season was about its receiving core.
The Badgers’ top four receiving leaders departed in 2025, including long-time option Vinny Anthony II. But the true cause for concern was the lack of production from Wisconsin’s pass catchers. Tight end Lance Mason led all Badgers with 398 receiving yards — the lowest single-season mark by a Badger since Lee DeRamus in 1991.
Granted, the quarterback carousel Wisconsin experienced last season meant passing the ball effectively was a rare sight. Nonetheless, with Colton Joseph added to the roster, it was clear Wisconsin needed to improve on their lackluster offensive production from a year ago.
Four games into the 2026 campaign, fifth-year senior Tyrell Henry already has 307 yards, breaking Badger records in the process.
Henry etched his name in the history books in week three against Eastern Michigan when he caught 14 passes, breaking the previous record of 13 set by Matt Nyquist in 1995.
It’s been quite the start for Henry, especially considering his lack of playing time for the Wisconsin offense over the last two years.
After transferring from Michigan State in 2024, Henry saw little playing time with Anthony II, Will Pauling and Trech Kekahuna ahead of him in the depth chart.
Before this season, Henry combined for six receptions, 41 yards and one touchdown during his time in Madison.
Despite the limited offensive snap count, Henry displayed flashes of his ability early in his collegiate career. With the Spartans in 2023, Henry snagged 24 receptions for 195 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games.
Following the several departures on the receiving end, the expectation was that Henry would have an expanded role in 2026. His mindset heading into the year reflected that.
“My approach was definitely just learning the game more, learning defenses more. Being in the right spot for [Joseph],” Henry said following Wisconsin’s win against Eastern Michigan.
As for his early success, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise.
“I expected to do this, I expected to be the player I am. I always knew I could do it,” Henry told The Daily Cardinal.
While Henry’s hot start is a very encouraging sign for the Badgers, they’ve shown the ability to win through other receiving options taking the lead.
In Wisconsin’s astounding 17-point comeback win against Penn State, Henry only caught two passes for 14 yards, with Joseph favoring tight end Jacob Harris throughout the contest.
But that says more about Wisconsin’s offensive versatility than it does about Henry. The Badgers don’t need him to be the lone top option at receiver. His reliable hands and ability to get yards after the catch has proven to be a valuable piece in an offense growing week to week.
After struggling to find his footing in the college football landscape, Henry has finally stepped up. His connection with Joseph will need to continue in order for the Badgers to sustain this sudden success, one that can bring real buzz around Camp Randall for the first time under Head Coach Luke Fickell.
There’s no better game for Henry to shine than against his former team, as Wisconsin is set to take on Michigan State this Saturday in Madison. Homecoming kickoff is set for 11:30 a.m.
