Josh Neal always regarded himself as a linebacker.

  But when injuries hit the fullback position in 2006, Neal moved to that position to help the team.

  He moved back to linebacker last season, then injuries hit the defensive line. So, Neal moved to defensive tackle during the season, despite being generously listed at 5-foot-10 and 250 pounds.

  This spring, he has played both defensive tackle and even some defensive end, due to more injuries in the line.

  When injuries hit the cornerback position on Tuesday, you half-expected to see Neal trot out on the field at that spot.

  Neal is a fifth-year senior from Nashville, Tenn., and the son of former Badgers receiver Marvin Neal, who is now a minister.

  Most of Josh Neal's playing time this season will likely come on special teams. But it would have been hard for the Badgers to make it through this injury-plagued spring without his contributions in the defensive line.

  "He's getting us through spring and he's got a great personality," UW coach Bret Bielema said. "If there's anybody that all the defensive guys rally and cheer around, it's Josh, because he's been able to do a lot of different things for us."