The Wisconsin football staff has been extremely impressed with one of their underclassmen offensive lineman this camp in particular.
Former four-star offensive tackle Kevin Heywood has starred for the Badgers so far this camp, making waves despite being a first-year player. Heywood was the top-ranked signee in the 2024 recruiting class for the Wisconsin staff, which ranked 25th overall as a class. While Heywood still might not touch the field this upcoming season, he has certainly made a case to hit the field for the Badgers.
Wisconsin Football Freshman Offensive Lineman Kevin Heywood Impressing Staff
If there is one thing the Wisconsin football staff has welcomed this offseason, it has been competition as the team pushes each other to get better. The Badgers admittedly did not push themselves like they wanted to last season, and the result on the field was lackluster. In order to reach the goals they feel they are capable of reaching, Wisconsin opened and encouraged all of their players to fight for roles on the field.
In particular, one player has truly taken advantage of this situation as he has proved to the staff he is a capable player. Offensive tackle Kevin Heywood signed with Wisconsin as their highest-rated recruit in the 2024 recruiting class. Heywood was ranked as a four-star recruit and held a top-100 national ranking throughout his recruitment.
While Heywood was not expected to push for a starting role during this upcoming season, he has impressed enough during practice to earn first-team reps. The Wisconsin football staff has been delighted by his development and sees a future star on their hands.
Heywood Displaying Strength and Football IQ Early On Throughout Camp
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Thus far throughout camp, Heywood has showcased both strength and football intelligence in his play on the field. Heywood has impressed in particular with his ability to pickup incoming rushers and read when he has a blitz coming his way. The strength of Heywood has also been notable both on and off the field, between dominating in the weight room and stopping powerful rushers.
Coming out of high school, Heywood was known for being an intelligent player that avoids penalties and blocks without having to hold. The offensive tackle was also known for his agile footwork and ability to block both smaller, faster rushers and bigger, stronger rushers.
Between the intelligence of Heywood and his ability to react appropriately on the field, there is no doubt that the offensive tackle will be successful. The question is whether or not Heywood will receive his chance to shine during this upcoming season.
Can Heywood Crack the Starting Lineup of the Wisconsin Badgers Football Team?
In order for Heywood to make the starting lineup this season, it would likely require an injury to occur, which obviously nobody wants to see happen. Senior Jack Nelson is currently the starter at left tackle ahead of Heywood, with redshirt junior Riley Mahlman starting at the right tackle position.
With the people ahead of Heywood performing and bringing in previous starting experience, it seems very unlikely that Heywood would be able to overtake one of the two. Heywood has been rotating in with the first team as of late to prepare him for a situation that requires the tackle to be thrusted into playing.
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