The Wisconsin Badgers have made another significant move in the transfer portal, adding a second commitment of the day. This time, it’s Abu Sama III, a former three-star recruit from the 2023 class who has committed to the program after an official visit. Sama previously signed with the Iowa State Cyclones and spent his entire collegiate career with the team. After a coaching change at Iowa State, he entered the transfer portal and will now head to Madison for the next season.

Over three seasons with the Cyclones, Sama accumulated 348 carries for 1,933 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. His most productive season came in 2025, where he gained 732 yards and scored five touchdowns. During that time, he shared carries with starting back Carson Hansen, who led the team in rushing with 952 yards.

Wisconsin had already secured the commitment of fellow Iowa State transfer Carson Van Dinter earlier that day. Like Sama, Van Dinter was not recruited by the current Wisconsin staff during his high school years. The two Cyclone transfers are now set to join the Badgers as they continue to build momentum in the transfer portal this weekend.

In addition to these additions, the Badgers have received three commitments in four days, including a recent decision from three-star wide receiver Kash Brock. This marks a strong start to the recruiting cycle for the program.

Meet the Newest Wisconsin Badgers’ Running Back Abu Sama III

Sama is a versatile running back who brings a mix of speed and power to the Badgers’ backfield. Currently, the team has Darrion Dupree and Gideon Ituka as their primary running backs, but Sama’s arrival adds depth. Wisconsin has also been linked to other running backs, such as USC transfer Bryan Jackson, suggesting the position might not be fully settled yet.

Regardless of the final roster, Sama is a player the coaching staff can rely on to gain consistent yardage. He averages 5.6 yards per carry over his career and recorded 61 yards per game in the past season. His physical style of play, combined with his 5-foot-11, 210-pound frame, allows him to consistently move forward and pick up extra yards even when facing contact.

Sama has also shown the ability to adapt to different roles within the offense. He can serve as both a change-of-pace back and a workhorse depending on what the team needs. His standout performance came against Colorado, where he carried the ball 24 times for 177 yards and two touchdowns.

Up Next: A Quarterback?

The Wisconsin Badgers are continuing to rebuild their offense, recently adding Bowling Green transfer tight end Jacob Harris. Harris contributed 19 receptions for 182 yards and five touchdowns, including three straight games with a touchdown. With a new tight end and running back on board, the next priority for the Badgers may be the quarterback position.

Top transfer portal target Colton Joseph is currently in Wisconsin, and he could be a key addition. Joseph, a former starter at Old Dominion, is considered one of the most important targets for the Badgers. Other programs, including Florida State and TCU, have also expressed interest in Joseph, and they have scheduled visits with other portal quarterbacks, which could be a positive sign for Wisconsin’s chances.

As the Badgers continue to make moves in the transfer portal, fans are eager to see how the roster will shape up for the upcoming season. With additions like Sama, Van Dinter, and Harris, the team is showing a clear intent to strengthen its offense and compete at a high level.