Benjamin Novak, a junior offensive lineman from Merrillville, Indiana, verbally committed to Wisconsin on Monday night to become the Badgers' second commitment in the class of 2026. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds,

Novak’s commitment moves Wisconsin’s class of 2026 up to No. 45 in the nation at this early stage in the cycle. That standing does not figure to be close to where the Badgers will finish the class. Luke Fickell’s first two full classes with the program ranked No. 25 and No. 28, respectively.