Madison— Wisconsin defensive coordinator Dave Aranda acknowledges losing Leon Jacobs and T.J. Edwards, UW's projected starters at inside linebacker, in a span of about 15 minutes Aug. 12 led to a few sleepless nights.
Edwards (shoulder) returned to practice Thursday but was held out of full-contact work, and Jacobs (toe) was in full pads but his assignment consisted of working on his mobility under the direction of a trainer.
The sight of the duo in full pads wasn't why Aranda sounded optimistic about the position, though.
During their absence Aranda has rotated six players at the two inside positions — senior Kellen Jones; redshirt freshman Ryan Connelly; freshmen Chris Orr, Alec Ingold and Nick Thomas; and redshirt sophomore Keelon Brookins.