News now: The Wisconsin Badgers have made great progress in their quest to secure one of the best defensive recruits in the country for the next season.
The Wisconsin Badgers have made significant strides in their pursuit of one of the nation’s top defensive recruits for the 2026 class, as 4-star safety Kaden Gebhart has included them in his top four schools. Gebhart, a highly sought-after safety from St. Louis, Missouri, has been gaining attention from top-tier programs across the country for his versatility and playmaking ability on the field. Alongside Wisconsin, the other schools making the cut for Gebhart’s recruitment include Ohio State, Clemson, and Penn State, all of which are known for their strong defensive programs and history of developing NFL talent.
Gebhart’s decision to include Wisconsin in his top four is a big win for head coach Luke Fickell and his staff. The Badgers have built a solid reputation for developing talented defensive players, and Gebhart would be a prime candidate to join the program and continue that tradition. Wisconsin has had success in recent years recruiting highly rated prospects, and with defensive coordinator Mike Tressel’s system now in place, the Badgers’ defense looks primed to be even more competitive in the Big Ten.
Ohio State, Clemson, and Penn State represent fierce competition, with all three schools boasting elite football programs and a consistent track record of sending players to the NFL. However, Wisconsin’s recent coaching changes and focus on building a strong defense might offer Gebhart the right fit for his skill set.
As Gebhart continues his recruitment, the Badgers will be eager to capitalize on his interest and further showcase the benefits of joining their program in the coming months.
