Russell Wilson to Give Wisconsin's Commencement Address

Russell Wilson may have only spent the latest stage of his college football career at the University of Wisconsin, but it was his one season there that may have gotten him to the NFL.

And once he was given his chance to start for the Seattle Seahawks, he never relinquished his position. In each of his first four seasons in the NFL, Wilson has led the Seahawks to the postseason, winning at least one playoff game every year, including a Super Bowl win in 2014.

Wilson played his first three seasons of college football at N.C. State, but transferred to Wisconsin for his senior season. That year he posted career bests in completion percentage, touchdowns, and several other major statistics.

This spring he will give the school's commencement address.

"We're honored to have Russell Wilson join us to celebrate commencement in May," UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank said in a statement. "Russell's feats on the football field, as a great college quarterback and now in the NFL, are legendary and he has been selfless in his charitable work off the field. Whether you follow sports or not, his achievements show how hard work and determination can lead to success at the highest levels. We look forward to his return to Camp Randall."

Wilson played his first three seasons of college football at N.C. State, but transferred to Wisconsin for his senior season. That year he posted career bests in completion percentage, touchdowns, and several other major statistics.

The school announced Wilson's appointment in a video with a Fallout-style opening and an introduction from his Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, also a UW alum.

"It's an honor to be asked to speak at any commencement ceremony, but I'm particularly excited to return to a place where I have so many great memories," Wilson in the school's statement. "My parents always emphasized that education would prepare me for life beyond school or sports. I was lucky enough to experience some of the amazing things that go on at UW, so I know these graduates are prepared for whatever comes their way."