Ben Wenzel’s Commitment to Wisconsin Feels Like Homecoming-and a Launchpad
There’s something special about a hometown kid choosing to stay home. For Appleton North linebacker Ben Wenzel, the decision to commit to Wisconsin wasn’t just about football-it was about familiarity, trust, and a vision for the future that felt right from the jump.
Wenzel, a three-star prospect, had been on the Badgers’ radar for a while. The relationship with the staff had been building steadily, and once the official offer came in, it didn’t take long for Wenzel to pull the trigger.
“When I got that offer, it felt right,” Wenzel said. “I’ve been going there since I was a sophomore, and I’d already built a strong relationship with Coach Tressel and Coach Borland. I was back for their last home game, and it’s always such a good experience.”
That long-standing connection gave Wenzel more than enough confidence to make Madison his next stop. But it wasn’t just about comfort-Wenzel’s senior season showed he’s ready to take the next step.
His focus this year was on becoming a more complete, dominant player. Mission accomplished.
“I wanted to take that next jump. Junior year, I could get to the right spots, but I wanted to finish plays better,” he said. “I ended up being All-State and Conference Defensive Player of the Year, so I’m happy with how that turned out personally.”
The team’s season ended earlier than hoped, with a first-round playoff exit. But the loss came at the hands of a squad that ended up playing for a state title, and Wenzel still took pride in what his group accomplished.
On the college side, Wisconsin’s season had its ups and downs, but one of the consistent strengths was linebacker play-both inside and out. That didn’t go unnoticed by Wenzel, who’s joining a program that continues to churn out high-level defenders at his position.
“It’s great to see,” he said of the linebacker unit. “It shows what the strength program and coaching staff can do in such a short time to get guys ready to play Big Ten football. It’s pretty wild.”
And Wenzel isn’t just stepping into a strong linebacker room-he’s joining a group that’s young, hungry, and already producing. That’s exactly the kind of environment he wants to be in.
“It’s exciting. I’m going into a room with some young guys I can learn from, and coaches who are going to get me to a high level quickly,” he said. “I’m pretty good friends with Coop, so it’s awesome to see what he’s doing.”
While football is the engine driving this next chapter, Wenzel’s also locked in on what life off the field will bring. Education, relationships, and the full college experience matter to him just as much.
“Outside of football, it’s the education and the friendships I’m going to build,” he said. “I can already see it when I’m down there. I’m so excited to be part of that program and get a world-class education.”
But make no mistake-he’s coming to Madison with a clear football mindset.
“It’s that drive to get better every day,” Wenzel said. “I know these coaches can get me there, and I’m excited for that process.”
As for the future of the program, Wenzel is all-in. He’s already bonded with fellow commits like Ryan Hopkins and Yahya Gaad, and he sees big things ahead-not just for himself, but for the entire 2026 class.
“In the last couple of weeks, you’ve seen what this team is capable of,” he said. “The 2026 class is only going to build on that. Belief in this program is important.”
For Wisconsin, landing Wenzel isn’t just another in-state win-it’s a statement. He’s a player with the tools, mindset, and passion to thrive in Madison.
And for Wenzel, it’s more than a commitment. It’s a homecoming-and the beginning of something bigger.