Wisconsin Badgers: NFL Draft Trends & Hidden Gems

On April 23rd, Wisconsin Badgers football used to pump out NFL talent like clockwork, with 100 players drafted since 2000, tying them for 15th all time.

But lately, that pipe mine's running dry only 4 picks in 2024 and 4 more in 2025, all coming late on day 2 or 3.

Earlier this week, mock drafts painted a similar picture for 2026.

Ed Drusher Mason-Rager looks like the surest bet, projected late day 2 and 2 day 3, thanks to his quick get off and pressure skills, even if he needs more size.

Fans and scouts are feeling the shift from those glory days of early round studs.

The program still got that tough lunchpill rep, but without big names rising fast, it's hitting Badger Nation where it hurts, fewer household names, carrying the scarlet and white to Sundays.

Digging deeper, wide out Vinnie Anthony II and tight in Lance Mason might sneak in late day 3 or go undrafted free Asian.

Then there are hidden gems like Corner Ricardal-Halman with his 10 picks despite the height, tackle Riley Maulman at 6 foot 8 and safety.

Austin Brown with Freakish athleticism.

Bottom mine, the Wisconsin brand endures by grinding out roster fillers, not stars.

Whether Riger hears his name Saturday or these UDFA's Landspots, Madison keeps feeding the league what it needs most, reliable depth.