Badgers' Draft Hopefuls Face Uncertainty

On April 21st, the 2026 NFL draft is knocking on the door, and Wisconsin Badgers fans got five key players on the bubble.

Leading the pack is Edge R Usher, Mason Ryger, wide receiver Vinny Anthony, tight-end Lance Mason, safety Austin Brown, and offensive lineman Riley.

Maulman.

These guys are all chasing that pro-dream, with projections all over the map from scouts like Dame Brugler and Lance Zeerlin.

Mason Ryger's story hits different. He battled injuries that sidelineed him for 18 months, even got told to retire medically.

Transferred to Wisconsin, balled out in 2025, with the second most pressures in the Big Ten at 3.8 per game.

Scouts love his twitchy speed and handwork off the edge, though he needs to finish more plays. Zeerlin pegs him as a 5th round pick.

Vinny Anthony, a two and a half year starter, showed versatility with touchdowns rushing, receiving, and on kick returns last year.

Blame the Badgers offense for his quiet stats. He's got that urgent athleticism, clocked to 6.683 cone at pro-day.

Still, Zeerlin sees him going undrafted, citing battles through contact.

Meanwhile, Lance Mason transferred from Missouri State and held it down as it tied in, though he's light on size for inline blocking.

Safety, Austin Brown and Lyman Riley Mallman round out the group, both projected undrafted by some rankings, like number 349 and 3.

74, all five are on pins and needles this weekend, ready for draft calls or free agent shots. Badgers pride stays alive either way.