A Slam Dunk 2026 Offensive Class
Wisconsin is off to a powerful start in shaping its 2026 recruiting class on the offensive side, highlighted by two standout, “home-run” additions: four-star running back Amari Latimer and four-star wide receiver Jayden Petit—both of whom offer dynamic skill sets and high ceilings in the Badgers’ revamped offensive system .
Amari Latimer – A Powerhouse Playmaker
Late June saw Wisconsin secure a major commitment from Latimer, a physically imposing and versatile running back from Sandy Creek High School in Georgia. Rated a four-star and the nation’s No. 17 at his position (No. 288 overall), Latimer ranks among the safest bets of the class .
What sets him apart is the combination of size, patience, and agility. He averaged 8.2 yards per carry on 136 attempts last season, also adding 27 receptions for 363 yards and four receiving touchdowns—a rare blend of contact durability and receiving polish .
Coach Jeff Grimes views running the football as the linchpin of his offense: “If you can run the football, then you can do anything.” Latimer fits this mindset to a tee, bringing a physical, downhill running style with above-average hands—ideal traits for a three-down back in Grimes’s attack .
His commitment is a huge win for Wisconsin, achieved through relentless recruiting, a strong relationship with positional coach Devon Spalding, and the added sibling connection—his brother, Geimere Latimer, transferring in at cornerback—that helped seal the deal .
Jayden Petit – A Blue-Chip Aerial Talent
Just weeks prior, Wisconsin landed Jayden Petit, a 6’4″, 210-pound four-star wide receiver from Florida, making a major statement for the program’s recruiting reach. He chose Wisconsin over offers from Oklahoma, Missouri, Auburn, Miami, and UNC, among others .
Petit is a rare blend: the size of a tight end with the straight-line speed of a track star. His junior year stats—50 catches for 777 yards and 12 touchdowns—hint at his explosive potential downfield .
What made Wisconsin’s pitch stand out was personal. Wide receivers coach Jordan Reid forged a deep connection—checking on Petit amid personal loss, being forthright about areas for growth, and emphasizing authenticity and family values. Those relationships, coupled with Wisconsin’s identity and the Big Ten’s profile, turned what was once a long shot into a commitment .
This marked the first four-star WR commit under the Fickell era and points to Wisconsin building its offensive foundation with high-upside players who fit both scheme and culture .
Broader Offensive Class and Strategy
A snapshot of Wisconsin’s 2026 recruiting class through early July shows a well-rounded offensive track record:
- Quarterback: Grade B. They’ve secured four-star QB Ryan Hopkins, but still need long-term stability in the room .
- Running Back: Grade A. Landing Latimer early was a strategic risk that paid off, giving them a proven difference-maker in the backfield .
- Wide Receiver: Grade A. Petit’s commitment, alongside other targets like Zion Legree and Tayshon Bardo, gives the staff a formidable aerial presence to build around .
- Tight End: Grade B-. They’ve landed a couple of commitments like Jack Sievers and Jack Janda, but they’ve missed out on a few priorities .
- Offensive Line: Grade B-. They already have commits like Benjamin Novak and Maddox Cochrane, but unlike previous years, next year may feature fewer linemen as the pipeline is fuller .
This offensive haul reflects a modern, high-powered recruiting philosophy, blending physicality with scheme fit and relationships under the guidance of Fickell, Grimes, Reid, and their support staff.
Zach Zilm’s Role and Insight
While not a recruit, Zach Zilm’s involvement, as the headline suggests, seems to point to his presence on the “Locked On” podcast episode offering inside insight or commentary on these developments — though public records show that Zilm recently left his role as Wisconsin’s Assistant Director of Player Personnel to join the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL .
Zilm’s rapid rise—from recruiting intern in 2023 to assistant director by 2024—made him a key piece in building the Badgers’ recruiting machine. His energy, insider perspective, and relationships likely lent additional authority and color to any discussion about Wisconsin’s recruiting class .
In Summary
- Wisconsin’s 2026 offense is off to a blazing start, fueled by home-run acquisitions in Amari Latimer and Jayden Petit—players who offer unmatched physical tools, scheme alignment, and upside.
- The class earns high marks so far, especially at running back and wide receiver, while quarterbacks, tight ends, and the offensive line remain areas to bolster as the cycle continues.
- The emergence of a strong front office and coaching staff—paired with voices like Zilm’s—has helped the Badgers craft a compelling pitch to elite recruits.
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