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TheWisconsin Badgers are growing closer to a number of recruits each day in the 2028 class and a particular position group could deliver fireworks.
Wisconsin and running backs have become synonymous over time after a number of greats graduated to the NFL to have success. The program has struggled to continuously keep the run game going under Head Coach Luke Fickell, but the only way to return is through the recruitment of elite talent at the position.
The Badgers went all-in on the position in the 2026 cycle with a lengthy recruiting battle for a prized four-star in Amari Latimer, which ultimately resulted in an unfortunate commitment flip. Wisconsin bounced back in the 2027 cycle with a home run commitment from top in-state recruit Kingston Allen, who should be a versatile back for the team.
The focus of the staff at the position is now on the 2028 class as two recruits have begun to standout. Tomball (Texas) four-star Ian Thomas and Bradley Bourbonnais (Ill.) three-star Ky’ren Edmon are two running backs to watch moving forward.
Thomas, a rising star in the talent filled state of Texas, is set to return to the field after a statement 22 touchdown season that included 20 rushing scores. Thomas had 40 carries as a freshman but after getting 203 touches as a sophomore the recruit proved the more he touches the ball, the more he will produce. The work-horse nature of Thomas has drawn interest from plenty of program early including Kentucky, Miami, Oklahoma, Georgia, and Michigan among others.
Landing a commitment down the line from Thomas will be no easy task, but the Wisconsin Badgers could be in a better position than most after a productive visit earlier in the off-season. A return to Madison for a game this season will likely be in the works which could really help Wisconsin move ahead in the recruiting process.
Edmon, on the other hand, is in a different position with just a handful of offers from Wisconsin, Cincinnati, Ole Miss, and Ohio but a group of programs watching closely. The running back put together his strongest season to date as a sophomore with 14 touchdowns and a balance between rushing and receiving. The do-it-all running back has an extensive track background and all of his 5-foot-10, 180-pound frame is thrown into every rush.
The running back was previously on campus in Madison in April and interest in a return visit has been expressed by both sides. The Wisconsin Badgers appear to be the leader at the moment, but the only issue that could arise involves other programs displaying interest in Edmon.
Edmon has reportedly been in contact with a handful of programs and will be taking visits with them in the near future. Among the interest programs Indiana, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas State, and Cincinnati.
The Bearcats are the newest program to offer a scholarship to Edmon but a chance to play in the Big 12 combined with an offense centered around the running back could be a tough offer to pass up. Missouri is another program that could surge as no true replacement for the star running back Ahmad Hardy has been produced.
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