Wisconsin Scores Key Commitment from Elite West Coast Quarterback
Wisconsin football has pulled off a rare and impressive recruiting win on the West Coast. Head coach Luke Fickell and the Badgers secured a major commitment on Sunday from quarterback Ryan Hopkins, beating out strong competition from Missouri and Duke to land the talented dual-threat prospect.
Hopkins, who plays for national powerhouse Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, announced his commitment to Wisconsin via Hayes Fawcett of On3. Originally from Newport Beach, Hopkins recently transferred to Mater Dei from fellow Trinity League program JSerra Catholic in San Juan Capistrano.
Last season at JSerra, Hopkins posted solid numbers as a junior. He threw for 1,111 yards with 13 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also showcasing his mobility by rushing for eight touchdowns on 58 carries. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 195 pounds, Hopkins brings both size and versatility to the quarterback position.
Despite being based in California, Hopkins attracted widespread interest from Power Five programs across the country. In addition to Wisconsin, schools like Missouri, Duke, California, Michigan State, and Kentucky all extended scholarship offers. His commitment marks a major recruiting win for Wisconsin, particularly in a region where the Badgers haven’t historically landed many top prospects.
With this commitment, Wisconsin adds a key piece to its 2026 recruiting class. The Badgers have been relatively quiet on the recruiting front for that cycle, now sitting at five verbal pledges. Hopkins becomes the first player from California to join the class.
The timing of the commitment is significant for Fickell, who received a contract extension in February despite mixed results in his first season leading the program. The extension provides Fickell the stability to build his vision for the future — and a top quarterback prospect like Hopkins is an important step in that direction.
Wisconsin’s quarterback room has seen its share of departures via the transfer portal in recent months. Mabrey Mettauer and Braedyn Locke both entered the portal, and former Miami transfer Tyler Van Dyke also departed, leaving the team in need of fresh talent under center.
Hopkins appears confident that Wisconsin is the right fit for him. In an interview with Evan Flood of 247Sports, Hopkins said the culture and energy around the program stood out to him.
“What really stood out to me was the culture at Wisconsin,” Hopkins said. “They pride themselves on hard work and toughness. It just felt like family. From the coaching staff to the fans, the energy is unmatched. I trust the coaches and believe in what they’re building.”
Hopkins took a visit to Madison in April, which played a big role in his decision. He also plans to return for an official visit in June. With Hopkins now in the fold, the Badgers have their quarterback of the future — and a rare West Coast gem to build around.
Leave a Reply