Who could get more playing time than expected in 2025?
The Wisconsin Badgers have compiled some strong recruiting classes over the past two cycles, ranking in the top 25 nationally in both years as they’ve brought blue-chip talent to Madison.
When he was hired, head coach Luke Fickell emphatically said his goal was to build off high school recruiting, and he now has the opportunity to do so over the next year or two as his top recruits begin to develop.
While it may be early to see some of those freshmen or redshirt freshmen hit the field, there could be a few surprises for Wisconsin this year. That takes us to one of our mailbag questions this week:
smithmachine20: Any of the younger players you think may surprise this year? I know it takes time for most to develop and get used to the college game, but we’ve had some big gets the last couple years. Mason Posa, for example, who we are all hoping develops sooner than later.
Great question. For the criteria of younger players, I’m going to specifically look at sophomores or younger.
Now, by the end of spring ball, I’m not sure how many surprises there are, but Wisconsin will have to rely on some younger players this season.
Of course, the obvious choices on offense are running backs Darrion Dupree and Dilin Jones, who should both get ample playing time this year.
But, looking deeper into the offense, there are a few candidates.
Trech Kekahuna is a clear candidate at receiver, stepping into the starting slot role as a redshirt sophomore. But, Eugene Hilton is a surprise candidate to watch as a true freshman. He impressed with route running and hands in the spring, and has a good ready-now frame to play on the outside. I wouldn’t expect him to start by any means, but he could figure into the rotation on the outside.
Currently, Vinny Anthony and Jayden Ballard are the top guys on the perimeter. Chris Brooks Jr. and Joseph Griffin Jr. are the likely backups entering the fall. Hilton is right there behind that group and could even have some room to move up with more reps.
At tight end, redshirt freshman Grant Stec should figure into the mix as Wisconsin uses more tight ends. The arrival of Missouri State transfer Lance Mason could bump him a spot on the depth chart, but he could be the No. 3 tight end this year. Hands have been a problem for Stec in the receiving game, but his size could earn him an early blocking role in two-tight-end sets.
On the offensive line, Emerson Mandell is pushing for that starting right guard spot. Now, with J.P. Benzschawel fully healthy, the Badgers may opt for the more experienced player. But, Mandell has been touted by both players and the coaching staff as perhaps the most explosive guy in the room. That’s not something to shy away from.
Defensively, I’d keep an eye on true freshman outside linebacker Nicolas Clayton as a potential third-down pass-rusher type. Clayton’s get-off off the edge may be as good as anyone’s in the room, and the Badgers have shown a willingness to create packages for those types of talents.
Thomas Heiberger should also step into a role as Aaron Witt’s backup at the new linebacker position created. Injuries have been Heiberger’s problem, but his athleticism could be used more as a hybrid linebacker in the new role.
At cornerback, it remains to be seen how the Badgers will rotate, but redshirt freshman Omillio Agard is the top backup to Ricardo Hallman at the field position. So, he could see some reps on the outside if Wisconsin keeps its corners fresh too.