Wisconsin’s 2026 Recruiting Class: Building the Foundation for the Future

With National Signing Day wrapped up, the Wisconsin Badgers have officially solidified their 2026 recruiting class. Head coach Luke Fickell and his staff closed this cycle with a balanced group of 13 signees who bring developmental upside, toughness, and positional versatility to Madison.

According to On3’s Industry Team Recruiting Rankings, Wisconsin’s 2026 class currently sits 59th nationally and 15th in the Big Ten with a total class score of 86.19. The ranking reflects a class built more on long-term development than immediate star power, yet one that fits the Badgers’ identity.

---

2026 Wisconsin Signees and On3 Ratings

Brady Bekkenhuis – Interior Offensive Lineman (88.98)
A long, powerful lineman who projects as a foundational interior blocker for the future. His size and technique fit perfectly into Wisconsin’s history of dominant line play.

Taylor Schaefer – Edge (88.77)
A high-motor edge rusher with length and strength. He gives Wisconsin a developmental pass-rush piece who can grow into an every-down force.

Jack Sievers – Tight End (88.33)
An athletic and versatile tight end capable of contributing as both a blocker and receiver. A strong fit for Wisconsin’s pro-style elements.

Keeyshawn Tabuteau – Wide Receiver (88.03)
A smooth separator with quickness out of the slot. His skill set complements Wisconsin’s evolving passing game.

Ryan Hopkins – Quarterback (88.00)
A poised quarterback from a national powerhouse program. Hopkins brings leadership, arm strength, and the traits Wisconsin values in long-term QB development.

Yahya Gaad – Edge (87.70)
A tall, athletic defensive end with natural pass-rush upside. His frame and tools make him one of the high-ceiling prospects in the class.

Qwantavius Wiggins – Running Back (87.13)
A shifty, balanced runner with good burst. Wiggins adds explosiveness to the backfield rotation.

Djidjou Bah – Defensive Lineman (87.13)
A strong interior defender who excels at stopping the run. Physical and reliable in the trenches.

Carsen Eloms – Cornerback (86.83)
A competitive corner with length and ball skills. Eloms plays with confidence and brings valuable depth to the secondary.

Donovan Dunmore – Cornerback (86.77)
A steady, instinctive corner who plays with physicality and discipline. A solid fit for Wisconsin’s defensive identity.

Zion Legree – Athlete (86.43)
A versatile athlete projected to contribute on either side of the ball. His flexibility adds value to multiple position groups.

Ben Wenzel – Linebacker (86.10)
A tough, physical linebacker from Wisconsin who provides downhill strength and leadership. A classic in-state fit.

Arthur Scott – Defensive Lineman (85.80)
A dependable interior lineman with experience and size. Offers immediate rotational potential.

Kah’ni Watts – Safety (Three-Star)
A late addition to the class who brings instinctive play and range to the defensive backfield.

---

Class Evaluation

Wisconsin’s 2026 class lacks five-star headliners but is rich with players who match the program’s culture. The average rating in the 86 to 89 range represents a developmental class with strong upside in the trenches, diverse skill talent, and several high-effort defensive prospects.

The staff addressed needs across all position groups. The offensive line, defensive front, and secondary each added multiple players, reflecting an emphasis on building depth and competition. While the class ranks outside the national top 50, it is balanced, physical, and tailored for long-term growth.

---

Looking Ahead

The Badgers continue to build in a changing recruiting landscape. As development remains central to Wisconsin’s success, this 2026 class may ultimately be judged more by on-field progression than initial rankings. With the transfer portal remaining active and future classes forming, this group serves as a foundation for roster stability and competitive depth moving forward.