MADISON, Wis. – In a move that combines deep tradition with renewed ambition, the University of Wisconsin announced today that Paul Chryst is returning to the Badgers football program in a key coaching staff role. Chryst, a former head coach and longtime fixture in the Badgers’ football family, will re-join the staff in a capacity that underscores the program’s commitment to continuity, excellence and building a foundation for future success.
Bringing Back a Badger Favorite
Chryst returns with a storied history at Wisconsin — both as a player and as a coach. His roots run deep in Madison and his legacy is well-known in Badger circles. During his tenure as head coach of the Badgers, Chryst compiled a 67-26 record, finishing third all-time in wins at UW. He is a two-time Big Ten Coach of the Year and led the program to multiple division titles and New Year’s Six bowl victories.
While his time as head coach ended abruptly in October 2022, when the university announced his departure after a 2-3 start to the season, this new chapter heralds a fresh beginning.
“We are delighted to welcome Paul back to the Wisconsin football family,” said Athletic Director Chris McIntosh. “His history in Madison, his passion for our program and his proven coaching ability make him an ideal fit as we enter a new era of competition.”
Role & Expectations
Under this new arrangement, Chryst will serve in a senior advisory/coaching capacity (precise title to be announced) focusing on offensive strategy, mentorship of coaches and players, and bridging the storied past of the program with its evolving future. This aligns with the university’s strategic vision to refresh its coaching structure while retaining critical institutional memory and leadership.
In returning, Chryst himself acknowledged the unique opportunity: “Madison has always been home,” he said. “Walking back into this role is humbling, and I’m excited to get to work with the staff, the players and our dedicated Badger community. We’ll bring energy, discipline and a shared commitment to excellence.”
Why This Matters Now
The move comes at a pivotal moment for the Badgers football program. With several recent coaching changes and an ongoing drive to regain national competitiveness, the addition of a familiar, trusted figure like Chryst offers stability, credibility and leadership. His understanding of the program’s culture, infrastructure and values brings immediate benefit.
It also sends a message to recruits, alumni and supporters: Wisconsin is rooted in its tradition, but ready to evolve. Chryst’s return is as much about honoring the past as it is about preparing for the future—a legacy coach who knows how to win and how to build.
What the Players & Fans Can Expect
For players, Chryst’s return offers a veteran voice, a resource for growth and a standard of accountability. Many of the current roster and incoming recruits will recognize his name, remember his accomplishments and feel the weight of what it means to wear the Badger uniform under his watch.
For the fan base, it’s a morale boost—a reassurance that leadership is committed and that the program values continuity. The Madison community, the alumni network and Big Ten rivals alike will take notice of this strategic appointment.
Expect Chryst to be active in spring practice, to participate in offensive planning sessions, to mentor younger coaches and to be present at key recruiting events. His role will not simply be ceremonial; the expectation is real input, real effort and real accountability.
Moving Forward
Over the coming weeks, the athletic department will announce Chryst’s official title, the details of the coaching hierarchy and how his role interfaces with the head coach and coordinators. The full staff re-structure will be revealed, as will the positioning of Chryst within the overall strategic plan for the program’s next chapter.
The university emphasizes that this return is not a return to the old model, but a strategic integration of a proven leader into a refreshed vision. The objective: to strike the right balance between tradition and innovation, experience and forward momentum.
Closing
“In returning to this program I love, I do so with humility, commitment and a fire to help us rise again,” Chryst said. “We have the talent, the tradition and the community. Now we’ll bring together the coaching structure, the vision and the work ethic to match our aspirations. Wisconsin football will compete. Wisconsin football will reclaim its place. And we’ll do it together—on the field, in the locker room, in the community and for every Badger who wears that jersey.”
Wisconsin fans, alumni and supporters: brace yourselves. A familiar face is back. A new chapter is beginning. We’re ready.
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