The next edition of the Wisconsin Football player spotlight series is on redshirt freshman TE Jake Ferguson. After a big spring, he could be ready to break out this fall.
Tight ends have always played a prominent role in Wisconsin’s offense. The program has a long history of producing NFL talent at the position, with Troy Fumagalli serving as the latest example. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fourth round of this year’s NFL draft.
Could talented redshirt freshman Jake Ferguson be next in line?
As a recruit
Ferguson was a highly regarded recruit in the class of 2017. He went to high school just across town from Camp Randall at James Madison Memorial in Madison. Over his career, he racked up 1,795 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns.
He was a high 3 star prospect and was ranked as the 13th best tight end in the nation. He was a finalist at The Opening, which is a highly exclusive event to which only the nation’s most elite high school players get invited.
At the time of his commitment to the Badgers, Ferguson held other offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Nebraska, and Northern Illinois and was receiving interest from Minnesota, Notre Dame, and Oklahoma. However, there never was much of a doubt that he would end up with Wisconsin.
Wisconsin football is in Ferguson’s blood. He is the grandson of the legendary Barry Alvarez, and his brother, Joe, just finished up his Badger football career this past season.
Last season
Due to the presence of Fumagalli, Kyle Penniston, and Zander Neuville, there was not a need to play Ferguson right away in 2017.
He took a redshirt and used that time to put on weight, add strength, and learn from Fumagalli, focusing especially on improving his blocking. However, his exceptional talent was on display from the start.
He impressed the coaching staff while playing on the scout team, challenging the starting defense each day in practice with his athleticism and receiving ability. He was named the scout team’s most valuable offensive player.
2018 Spring practice
Ferguson proceeded to build on his redshirt season by creating a ton of buzz during spring practices. His performance was arguably the biggest story of the spring.
Jake Ferguson gonna Jake Ferguson@jqfergy11 #OnWisconsin pic.twitter.com/LrB7qt5Owm
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) April 17, 2018
He made some jaw-dropping catches and flashed tantalizing big-play ability. Listed at 6’5, he has ridiculous hops. Ferguson shows the potential to be a nightmare matchup at tight end for opposing defenses.
So #Badgers 2017 football commit Jake Ferguson can get it done on the basketball court, too. https://t.co/o2VlnH2ndp
— Zach Heilprin (@ZachHeilprin) July 7, 2016
What to expect in 2018
After his eye-opening play in the spring, there is little doubt Paul Chryst is going to get Ferguson on the field in the fall. However, both junior Kyle Penniston and senior Zander Neuville saw quite a bit of action last season and will challenge him for reps.
Both players will probably be ahead of Ferguson on the depth chart to start the season. They are each talented tight ends in their own right who have played in some big games.
That being said, look for the freshman to still carve out a significant role for himself. In particular, with his leaping ability and talent for catching the football in traffic. Ferguson should get plenty of opportunities in red zone situations. Expect him to put up a touchdown or two this year while slowly earning more snaps as the season progresses and he gains experience.
Next: Wisconsin's College Football Playoff Scenarios
Based on what he has shown thus far in his young career, Ferguson’s ceiling is out of this world. This season could set the stage for a special career in Madison.