Updated: Three-star safety Austin Brown finds 'best fit' at Wisconsin
Wisconsin's hot summer streak on the recruiting trail continued Sunday as 2022 safety Austin Brown announced his commitment to the Badgers.
"I always liked them a lot since I visited there," Brown told BadgerBlitz.com. "I've been in contact with a few of the kids on that visit as well since they have committed, so that definitely helped my decision."
A high three-star prospect, Brown officially visited UW the weekend of June 4. He also took trips to Northwestern, Michigan, Boston College and Illinois last month, as noted by Rivals.com's profile of the Johnston City, Ill., native. Coordinator Jim Leonhard and assistant Bobby April III served as the lead contacts in Brown's recruitment.
"I had a great visit there," Brown said. "We toured the facilities and the city of Madison.
"How close the players and coaches seemed to be stood out to me. Coach (Paul) Chryst's message was that you will leave with a great degree and be part of a great football program. The coaches were all excited when I told them my decision."
The No. 34 projected safety in the 2022 class played in six games during a shortened junior season. He accumulated 1,126 yards on 9.4 yards per carry with 14 touchdowns on offense, according to his junior Hudl film. Defensively, Brown registered 36 tackles, two for loss, along with two forced fumbles and two passes defended each.
"They seem me playing either of their safety spots," said Brown, who was hosted on his visit by second-year cornerback Max Lofy. "I believe I am the only safety they are taking in this class.
"I feel a big relief after committing, especially because it was my best fit at Wisconsin."
Overall, Brown received 19 offers, according to Rivals.com. Other Power Five opportunities for the 6-foot-1, 195-pound recruit included Iowa, Iowa State, Louisville, Minnesota, Purdue and Vanderbilt.
Wisconsin now holds 11 scholarship commitments for the 2022 class with the addition of Brown. Ten of those have come since June 19.
