Why is Wisconsin RB Chez Mellusi stepping away? Closer look at his latest decision amid injury scare

Wisconsin Badgers running back Chez Mellusi has decided to step away from the team for now, following an injury scare. The Badgers announced Thursday that Mellusi, a sixth-year senior, will take some time off after enduring several major injuries throughout his college career. His most recent setback was a broken leg suffered in last season's game against Purdue.

As Wisconsin (2-2, 0-1 Big Ten) prepares to host Purdue (1-3, 0-1) this Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium, the team will be without one of their most experienced players.

Why is Wisconsin RB Chez Mellusi stepping away?

Chez Mellusi is stepping away from football to focus on his health and rehab his injuries. Mellusi will take a break from the team as he works to recover.

According to the school's statement on Thursday, Chez is taking time to get his body right:

“He’s endured many injuries and has worked extremely hard to be able to play this year, but his body hasn’t responded the way he expected,” the statement read. “We’re here to support Chez in any way we can and hope he’ll be back on the football field again one day.”

Mellusi has battled serious injuries throughout his career, including a torn ACL in 2021, a broken arm in 2022 and multiple leg and ankle injuries that caused him to miss nine games last season.

In his absence, Tawee Walker, Cade Yacamelli and Darrion Dupree are expected to get more opportunities.

Since Mellusi has already used his redshirt season, he would need to provide medical documentation to be eligible for another year of play under NCAA rules, per a CBS report.

Wisconsin RB Chez Mellusi was having a solid 2024 season

Wisconsin Badgers running back Chez Mellusi (1) during warmups - Source: Imagn

Wisconsin RB Chez Mellusi has had a solid 2024 season, with 56 carries, 232 rushing yards, three touchdowns and an average of 4.1 yards per carry. Despite an early-season injury, he bounced back quickly, even joining spring practice earlier than expected.

The coaching staff has been mindful of his workload, easing him back into action during the preseason.

Mellusi's standout performance came in the season opener against Western Michigan on Aug. 30, where he rushed 19 times for 74 yards. His best average, though, came against Alabama on Sept. 14, with an impressive six yards per carry.