The Wisconsin Badgers previously landed a massive recruiting target in the 2026 class, and have since fought off multiple programs.
Amari Latimer, a talented and arguably underrated 2026 running back, has been one of the top recruiting priorities for the Wisconsin staff. The Badgers sent the house to land Latimer, and were successful in doing so in the end despite major programs such as Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Miami (FL), and Michigan very involved.
While Latimer may have committed to Wisconsin, multiple programs have still kept close contact with the recruit and likely will do so up until signing day. For the Wisconsin, all that can be done at this point is hold on and hope the relationships built are enough to keep the future of the recruit in Madison. Despite the pressure, the Badgers do not appear worried after throwing everything that they can at the recruit.
Following his commitment to Wisconsin, Latimer began to be pursued more heavily by Tennessee, Georgia, and Georgia Tech in particular. Georgia and Georgia Tech have both expressed that the programs feel Latimer is underrated and would offer a great set of skills early regardless of his ranking. Both programs also hosted the running back for official visits previously this summer, which were reportedly both positive experiences for Latimer.
Currently, Latimer is a composite four-star recruit but had been a three-star player up until recently, and the 20th ranked running back in the class. Latimer is also considered to be the 36th overall recruit in the state of Georgia, which has also led to an increased pursuit from both in-state programs interested. An important note to remember is that Georgia is one of the deepest, most talent rich states in the country and Latimer has made a name for himself despite that.
This summer has been major for Latimer as many programs have begun to grow even closer, with the running back naming Georgia as the program keeping the closest contact outside of Wisconsin.
On the field, seeing why so many programs are still so interested in the recruit despite his commitment status is clear. Latimer possesses a perfect frame for the position at 6-foot, 215-pounds, with enough muscle to run over physical linebackers. The running back also has gifted vision and great footwork that allows for himself to capitalize on any amount of space that the defense gives him.
Obviously, Latimer is his own man and can do whatever he chooses to do, however a flip in his commitment appears to be very unlikely. Latimer himself stated that he is looking for “the one” during his recruitment, and thus far Wisconsin has been a very hard program to beat. Between the development, relationships, and even family that the program can offer, Latimer has been head over heels about joining the program.
The running back continues to listen to what other programs have to say, but the Badgers staff remains confident that Latimer will arrive in Madison for his collegiate career.
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