Wisconsin defensive lineman Ben Barten has landed an NFL opportunity, as he signed with the New York Giants after the 2026 NFL draft.
Barten boosted his stock at Wisconsin’s pro day with 33 reps on the bench press, a number that would have tied for second across all positions at this year’s NFL scouting combine. For a defensive lineman trying to carve out a role on an NFL front, that strength mark underscored the kind of power teams look for when building depth in the trenches.
The Giants also added a player with recent, steady production in Madison. Barten started all 12 games for the Badgers in 2025, giving him a full season of weekly snaps and game-planning experience in a major role up front. That kind of availability and reliability matters for linemen competing for roster spots, especially early in their pro careers when special teams and rotational reps can decide who sticks.
Barten now heads into his first NFL offseason facing the usual undrafted climb, but his pro day numbers and starting resume give him a clear calling card. Next up for Wisconsin fans to watch is which other Badgers turn spring workouts into NFL contracts and how Barten’s pro day strength translates once the Giants get him on the field.
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: New York Giants sign Wisconsin defensive lineman as UDFA
Reporting by Ryan Harings, Badgers Wire / Badgers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
