Wisconsin Football: Top 3 Badger prospects from 2021 NFL Draft

Wisconsin had two linebackers named to All-Big Ten teams last season in Chris Orr and Zach Baun but little do outsiders know, neither of those guys led the Badgers in tackles.

Jack Sanborn was the leading tackler for Wisconsin as just a sophomore and he somehow went without being named even an honorable mention All-Big Ten linebacker. He put together a great season for Wisconsin, though, leading the defense with 80 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, three interceptions, three pass deflections and a forced fumble.

This kid was all over the place.

While Wisconsin is known for its offensive linemen, the linebacker position has been a heavily-drafted position as well. In fact, since the 2016 NFL Draft, the Badgers have had eight linebackers selected with the most recent being Baun in round three of 2020 by the Saints. He was considered a massive steal at that position.

Sanborn should be the next Wisconsin linebacker selected, assuming he considers leaving after his junior season which could very well see him surpass 100 total tackles.

If Sanborn steps up and becomes the leader of that defense and surpasses 100 tackles, 15-plus tackles for loss and nearly 10 sacks, he could be a serious prospect. He has an NFL future.