Wisconsin is just a few weeks away from the season opener against Notre Dame on September 6th at Lambeau Field. Lots of the position battles are starting to be figured out, while others are just heating up. All offseason, we've been talking about how much better this team is on paper, but it's been encouraging to see that it's true in camp.
There have been plenty of standout performers in camp, and many players are getting the highlight reel treatment. However, if forced to narrow the list to three Badgers whose stock has skyrocketed the most through this point of fall camp, the following is where we land:
1. Eugene Hilton Jr.
The conversation about who is going to be the top wide receiver on the depth chart has centered around Hilton, Jaylon Domingeaux, and Chris Brooks Jr. However, it seems as if Hilton's strong camp has given him the lead in that discussion. You could even argue that the race is over, with his very strong camp. Many media members are already doing this exact thing, saying it's Hilton at the top.
He's consistently shaking off defensive backs, finding open pockets of the field, and showcasing his ball skills. His jump from freshman to sophomore year has been impressive to watch.
2. Charles Perkins
Big Perk also took a huge jump. He was already going to be a starter on the defensive line, but he's showing he's a monster. The other huge news is that Perkins is becoming a leader on the defense, not just for the defensive line unit but for the entire squad. He's a player who will have a big impact this season.
The redshirt senior came in at 6'2 and 333 pounds, and the hope was that he could be a run-stuffer in the middle, but he's even shown more than that in camp. The ability to get into the backfield. His stock is soaring. Nick Osen even comments, "The ascension from Charles Perkins has been something to see."
3. Eric Fletcher Jr.
Fletcher is in the midst of a boundary corner position battle, and he's forced his way to the top of the conversation. It's between Jai'mier Scott, Fletcher, and Cai Bates. Both Scott and Fletcher seem to be jockeying for that top spot, and each cornerback may find a way to impact the Badgers this season.
As a redshirt freshman last season at Oklahoma State, he worked his way into the rotation, logging 136 snaps. His competitive drive and ball skills made him a no-brainer for playing time even as a freshman; now he's forcing the conversation again at Wisconsin.
Some honorable mentions:
Ryan Hopkins
Thomas Heiberger
Either Hopkins or Heiberger could have made this list; even Lucas Simmons-Johansson deserves a shoutout. The three above seem to have improved their standing the most and are forcing conversations about playing time, starting, and even leadership. Hopkins has impressed, but he's still not catching Joseph.
Heiberger could pass Jon Jon Kamara, and he's been really standing out all camp, so keep an eye on that as camp continues.
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