With the 2026 NFL draft in the books and no Wisconsin Badgers player selected for the first time in 47 years, it is fair to wonder about the state of the program.
That said, Wisconsin still has several players on the roster who could emerge as NFL draft picks when the 2027 draft arrives. It is early, but here are five players who could restart the Badgers’ draft streak.
Heywood has a prototypical NFL tackle build, with a 6-foot-8 frame, long arms, and movement skills few young linemen possess. NFL teams are always looking for tackles who can anchor in pass protection and keep their quarterback upright. If Heywood stays healthy, he looks like Wisconsin’s next potential high-level tackle prospect.
Burks, who transferred from Missouri this offseason, has the length and athletic traits to turn his final season in Madison into a draft opportunity. He was productive in the SEC and flashed range against some of the best playmakers in college football. With a year of refinement at Wisconsin, Burks has a clear path to NFL attention.
Sama, a workhorse-type running back who transferred from Iowa State, already looks the part of an NFL back at 5-foot-11, 210 pounds. He brings proven production, explosiveness, and a versatile skill set that could help him fit as depth in an NFL running back room. Over his career, Sama has averaged 5.6 yards per carry and scored 13 rushing touchdowns, showing both consistency and a nose for the end zone.
Experienced starting centers with strong pass-blocking traits are often in demand during draft season. Kawecki, who transferred from Oklahoma State, brings good size and proven production in pass protection. With a strong season in Madison, his body of work could be tough for NFL scouts to ignore.
Most don't expect Joseph to leave for the NFL draft just one year after transferring from Old Dominion to Wisconsin, but his physical tools are hard to ignore. Anytime a quarterback can move and throw like Joseph, there is at least some long-term NFL upside. If he plays well this season, the league will be checking in on the gifted Badgers quarterback.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Five Wisconsin Badgers football players to watch in 2027 NFL Draft