(Future) Badger Observer: LB Ben Wenzel
Breaking down why Wisconsin locked in on this in-state standout for the 2026 class.
FOND DU LAC, Wis. — Ben Wenzel showed why the University of Wisconsin football program coveted another in-state linebacker for the third consecutive recruiting cycle.
Wenzel flew around the field in a nail-biting 15-8 victory by Appleton North at Fond Du Lac on Thursday. He recorded 11½ tackles (seven solo) that included one tackle for loss, according to Bound Wisconsin, as Wisconsin assistant linebackers coach Tuf Borland watched from the sideline.
“It means the world,” Wenzel said. “We came up with a tough loss last week, and that was probably the best week of practice we've ever had, to be quite honest.
“And then to respond from a bad start like that is just phenomenal, and we need to maintain that all season. And I think we're going to have a very good season.”
The (Future) Badger Observer series continues in watching Wisconsin’s 2026 commits. Here’s how Wenzel performed Thursday, how his skill set could translate to Wisconsin’s defense, and what he told reporters after the win.
Be sure to check out (Future) Badger Observer’s first two features with four-star wide receiver Jayden Petit and quarterback Ryan Hopkins.