Big news for IU football fans: the Hoosiers have just landed a significant addition to their roster with the commitment of Wisconsin transfer safety Preston Zachman. But here's where it gets interesting—Zachman is entering his seventh and final season of college football in 2026, and he’s bringing a wealth of experience to Bloomington. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 212 pounds, Zachman has been a stalwart on the field, logging 35 career games (20 starts) and nearly 1,500 snaps, all with the Badgers. His stats are impressive: 130 tackles and seven interceptions, including a standout 2024 season where he recorded a career-high 58 tackles, two interceptions, and four pass breakups. And this is the part most people miss—despite missing the final nine games of the 2025 season due to a leg injury, Zachman still managed to earn Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors after a stellar performance in the season opener against Miami (Ohio).
Zachman’s arrival couldn’t come at a better time for IU, as he’s expected to fill the void left by departing starters Louis Moore and Devan Boykin. To make this move possible, Zachman is seeking a medical hardship waiver for his seventh season, which he’s likely to receive given his limited play in 2025. His journey to Indiana is a testament to his resilience—after missing the entire 2021 season and playing just one game in 2020 (a season that didn’t count against eligibility), Zachman has battled injuries but consistently delivered when on the field. For instance, in 2022, he grabbed his first career interception in the season opener against Illinois State before another injury sidelined him.
Here’s where it gets controversial: While Zachman’s experience and skill are undeniable, some might question whether a player entering his seventh season can maintain the same level of performance. But his track record suggests otherwise—his ability to adapt and excel, even after setbacks, makes him a valuable asset. Out of Southern Columbia High School in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Zachman was a three-star recruit in the class of 2020, rated by major outlets like 247 Sports, ESPN, and Rivals. Now, he’s poised to make a major impact at IU.
For those keeping tabs on the transfer portal, this move is part of a larger trend of roster reshuffling. To dive deeper into IU’s 2026 prospects and roster changes, check out our portal tracker and position-by-position analysis. And if you’re hungry for more IU football recruiting news, we’ve got you covered.
Thought-provoking question for you: Do you think Zachman’s experience will be a game-changer for IU’s defense, or is there a risk in relying on a player with his injury history? Let us know in the comments! Stay connected with The Daily Hoosier—your go-to source for all things IU—on X, Facebook, and Instagram. And if you love what we do, explore seven ways to support our free IU coverage at no cost to you. Go Hoosiers!
