The Sweet 16 ranking is based on a combination of three factors: position need, interest in Wisconsin and talent level.
Note: All quotes used in this report are from the Rivals.com network.
No. 16: Inside linebacker Christian Pierce
Offers: Illinois, Iowa, Louisville, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio State, Texas and Wisconsin, among others
Previous Rank: 16
The Word: Rivals250 linebacker Christian Pierce visited Wisconsin in late March and is expected to return to campus this fall when UW hosts Ohio State. The Badgers held a commitment from his older brother, Roderick Pierce, before he flipped to Michigan in the 2023 class.
No. 15: Tight end James Flanigan
Offers: Illinois, Iowa State, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Notre Dame, Penn State, Stanford and Wisconsin
Previous Rank: 4
The Word: Wisconsin, Michigan and Notre Dame are three schools to watch for James Flanigan, a four-star in-state tight end from Green Bay. His father, Jim, played on the defensive line for the Irish from 1990-93. Keeping Flanigan inside the state will be a top priority for Nate Letton in this class, but the Badgers are likely trailing in his recruitment.
