MADISON – Wisconsin football is nearing the halfway mark of spring practices.
The Badgers completed the seventh of their 15 practices on April 11, which started at Camp Randall Stadium before migrating to the outdoor practice field. It was UW’s first time wearing full pads since spring break.
Here are some observations from practice:
Wisconsin’s defense comes up with picks (and almost-picks)
UW linebacker Thomas Heiberger picked off quarterback Colton Joseph in the end zone on a fourth-and-6 from the 10-yard line. Joseph had plenty of time in the pocket, but the defense had stout coverage.
Luke Emmerich jumped up to pick off a Carter Smith pass at the goal line, too. Cornerback Eric Fletcher Jr. and safety Cairo Skanes were tantalizingly close to picking off a Deuce Adams pass.
A few of the positives for Wisconsin’s passing game, meanwhile, included a Ryan Hopkins touchdown pass to Eugene Hilton and a Nizyi Davis reception with significant yards after the catch. (Hopkins also threw that pass.)
Jon Jon Kamara among defensive standouts
Wisconsin linebacker Jon Jon Kamara has continued to shine in spring practices.
The Kansas transfer’s impressive plays included a tackle for loss where he penetrated on the left side with ease and did not give the offense any chance of success on the play. He also stifled a Carter Smith quarterback keeper earlier in practice.
Kamara, a 6-foot-4 redshirt sophomore, is at a position group that has been one of the bright spots so far in spring practice. Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano also continue to put together strong showings in the spring after emerging as freshman stars in 2025.
Wisconsin’s offensive line gives running backs room to run
Wisconsin’s offensive line – particularly the first team – appeared to have one of its better spring practices.
Darrion Dupree broke free for a big run early in practice as he benefited from great blocking ahead of him. Joseph also had a nice gain during that same phase of practice. Nate Palmer also had some opportunities to show off his speed, including on one carry where he fumbled it before recovering it himself.
Right tackle Kevin Heywood appeared to be called for a holding penalty, but that was only after an extended period of time in which Joseph could not find an open receiver and started to scramble.
Other notes
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Observations from Wisconsin football’s seventh spring practice of 2026
Reporting by John Steppe, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
