Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
The Badgers’ attempt to build a positional pipeline at one of Florida’s top high schools continues.
For the class of 2017, Wisconsin’s top player on the board is believed to be James Houston, an outside linebacker from Ft. Lauderdale (American Heritage), Fla. While he doesn’t have major star pedigree, Houston has an offer sheet that can only be called tremendous.
In 2018, American Heritage has a prospect that could very well follow in Houston’s footsteps as last Thursday, the Badgers made an offer to defensive end Andrew Chatfield.
While there is a difference between what he currently does for American Heritage and what he would likely do for a Wisconsin defense, Chatfield’s Hudl profile is highly interesting. It shows a prospect with a quick first step and a lateral agility that allows him to be a terror in the backfield as well as the motor and a strength that belies a 6’3, 210-pound frame. And this was as a sophomore.
Right now, the Badgers have the lead on the dint of the best offer. He has offers from Mississippi State, Temple and South Florida, among others. Being a 247Sports four-star prospect at a top-notch program means it’s not unreasonable to expect his offer sheet to expand to some very public football teams. With that said, the Badgers lead and have an in with a teammate. They have a chance to build on their lead.