Wisconsin Football Kicks Off Spring Practice

Badgers take to Camp Randall Stadium for second day of spring workouts

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:56pm

The Wisconsin Badgers football team took advantage of the weather and held their second spring practice session at Camp Randall Stadium. The practice featured a number of position battles and standout performances from several players, including freshman quarterback Ryan Hopkins, senior edge rusher Micheal Garner, and sophomore safety Raphael Dunn.

Why it matters

Spring practice is a crucial time for college football teams to evaluate their roster, identify areas of strength and weakness, and prepare for the upcoming season. The Badgers' spring workouts will help shape the depth chart and provide valuable reps for players competing for starting jobs.

The details

Highlights from the practice session included freshman quarterback Ryan Hopkins bouncing back from a tough first day, senior edge rusher Micheal Garner standing out with his improved hand-to-hand combat, and sophomore safety Raphael Dunn looking like one of the most improved players on the roster. The practice also featured several position battles, with players like Blake Cherry, Tyreese Fearbry, Micheal Garner, and Jaylae Williams all seeing first-team reps.

  • The Badgers held their second spring practice session on Saturday.

The players

Ryan Hopkins

Freshman quarterback who had a strong showing after a tough first day, displaying his arm strength and running ability.

Micheal Garner

Senior edge rusher who has been getting a lot of good reps and has improved his hand-to-hand combat skills.

Raphael Dunn

Sophomore safety who has been one of the most improved players on the roster, moving better laterally and making plays near the line of scrimmage.

Blake Cherry

Sophomore who took the initial first-team reps at left guard.

Tyreese Fearbry

Senior who started with the first-team defense at edge.

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What’s next

The Badgers will continue their spring practice schedule, with the next session scheduled for Tuesday.

The takeaway

Wisconsin's spring practice is off to a promising start, with several players standing out and position battles taking shape. The Badgers' ability to develop talent and identify the right players for key roles will be crucial as they look to build on their success in the upcoming season.