Wisconsin secures commitment from fifth offensive lineman for 2025 class

MADISON – Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell and his assistants continue to pursue several prospects for the 2025 class, though the Badgers probably have put the finishing touch on their offensive line recruiting.

Hardy Watts, an interior linemen from Brookline, Massachusetts, announced Monday on Instagram he has committed to UW.

"I think I have the best chance to be successful at Wisconsin," he said after announcing his choice.

Watts, 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, is the fifth offensive lineman in UW's 2025 class and 21st known commitment overall.

Watts chose UW over Michigan and Clemson but also held offers from Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Penn State, Nebraska, Miami and others.

AJ Blazek, in his first year as UW's offensive line coach, said during spring ball that the Badgers would aggressively recruit high school linemen.

The Badgers signed five offensive linemen in the 2024 class and now are in position to do the same in 2025.

Watts joins Michael Roeske of Wautoma, Nolan Davenport of Ohio, Logan Powell of Arizona and Cam Clark of Michigan in the 2025 class.

Watt was asked why so many prospects have chosen UW this cycle.

"Because of the coaching staff they have built," he said, adding he has grown close to Blazek. "The people that they have there are just so nice, so genuine and so caring. I think that's who I want to surround myself with the next four or five years."

More:Wisconsin football recruiting tracker. A look the Badgers' commitments for the 2025 class