UW’s Baun out indefinitely with foot injury
MADISON – Wisconsin outside linebacker Zack Baun, who missed the 2017 season after suffering a broken left foot in late August, is out indefinitely because of another injury.
Baun, a graduate of
Brown Deer High School, injured his left foot during practice Friday.
He was examined by a trainer and limped to the locker room. He returned wearing a protective boot.
Baun watched part of practice Tuesday and was again wearing the boot.
UW officials are waiting for the results of an MRI to determine the severity of the injury, but it appears they are optimistic Baun did not re-break the foot.
The Badgers have five more practices scheduled for the spring.
Baun, 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, entered spring ball expecting to win a starting spot and had been paired with Andrew Van Ginkel on the No. 1 unit.
With Baun sidelined, UW’s top two outside linebackers appear to be Van Ginkel, who developed into a consistent playmaker last season, and walk-on Tyler Johnson.
Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard has also been evaluating Arrington Farrar, Christian Bell, Noah Burks and Izayah Green-May.
Van Ginkel finished eighth on the team in tackles last season with 39, including 10 for loss. He intercepted two passes, one in the Big Ten title game and the other in the Orange Bowl, and forced two fumbles.
Johnson recorded eight tackles and two fumbles last season.
Spring game canceled: UW officials announced that the annual spring game, set for 6 p.m. Friday, has been canceled because of the likelihood of heavy rain and thunderstorms.
The game will not be rescheduled. UW instead will hold its 12th practice of the spring in the McClain Center.
“The safety of our student-athletes and fans is our utmost priority,” athletic director Barry Alvarez said in a news release. “The weather forecast has been pretty consistent in calling for a good chance of rain and thunderstorms on Friday. We thought it was best to make the call early to give the numerous groups involved in the game, including our team, our fans, our media partners and staff, notice of the cancellation as soon as possible.”
The Badger Sports Kids’ Fair, which had been scheduled to take place in the McClain Center from 4:30-6 p.m., is also canceled.
“It’s certainly disappointing for our fans who wanted a chance to see our team and for our players who always look forward to playing in Camp Randall,” head coach Paul Chryst said in a release. “Unfortunately some things are beyond your control.”
Fans who purchased tickets for the spring game in advance will receive refunds. Those who purchased tickets with a credit or debit card will have their purchase automatically refunded. No action is required.