Hunter Wohler reflects on Wisconsin football career, prepares for NFL draft process
Hunter Wohler is ready to represent Wisconsin at the NFL Combine and prove that he belongs at the next level after a standout career with the Badgers.
Hunter Wohler’s football journey has always been rooted in Wisconsin—from his standout prep career at Muskego to his time as a captain for the Badgers defense.
Now, as he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, Wohler is embracing the opportunity to represent his home state on one of football’s biggest pre-draft stages: the NFL Scouting Combine.
"Growing up in Wisconsin, it was kind of a dream for me [to make the NFL] since I started playing ball," Wohler told reporters. "So it’s a blessing to be here and be able to represent Wisconsin and all the guys that are there, that have come through there, that are still there.
"The coaches that I had, it’s a blessing to be in this spot, and you do everything you can to prove the ones that bet on you and prove them right."
For a four-star recruit and two-time WFCA Wisconsin Player of the Year, Wohler’s path to stardom always felt like a matter of when, not if. Instead of following the typical blue-chip path and heading to Ohio State after picking up a scholarship offer, Wohler chose to stay home and play for Wisconsin—where he quickly established himself as an impact player.
After battling injuries as a sophomore, Wohler broke out during his junior season in 2023. Wohler racked up 120 total tackles, including 74 solo tackles, 37 stops, 10 pressures, six pass deflections, two interceptions, and a sack.
His performance earned him Second-Team All-Big Ten honors from the media, a spot on PFF’s All-Conference First Team, and recognition as the second-highest-graded safety in the country.
The 6-foot-2, 211-pound defensive back earned an overall defensive grade of 86.9 from Pro Football Focus, with particularly strong ratings in run defense (82.1), tackling (88.2), and pass coverage (89.1).
As a senior, Wohler started all 11 games he appeared in for the Badgers and led Wisconsin in tackles with 71 total (51 solo), including 21 stops, six pass deflections, and a tackle for loss en route to Honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition.
Now, he’s looking to bring that same high-level production to the next level.
Wisconsin roots run deep
Wohler’s time at Wisconsin wasn’t always smooth sailing.
Over four years, Wohler played under three different position coaches, two defensive coordinators—Jim Leonhard and Mike Tressel—and three head coaches, starting with Paul Chryst, followed by Leonhard in an interim role, and finishing under Luke Fickell. While the constant turnover at head coach wasn’t necessarily ideal, he believes it helped shape him into a more versatile, adaptable player who can succeed at the next level.
"Having three different position coaches while I was there, two different coordinators and two different playbooks, it’s not always the most fun having to transition and build those new relationships, but it’s a bit of a blessing in disguise," Wohler said. "You’re forced to learn a new playbook. You’re forced to be thrown in these new positions that maybe you haven’t played before.
"Having three different coaches, I’m able to see the game at a different light. You kind of build up a bunch of resources and different angles to see the game and improve as you move forward."
That ability to handle changes with a positive attitude will serve him well at the next level, but Wohler hasn’t lost sight of the program he’s leaving behind.
Wisconsin’s 5-7 record in 2024—its first losing season in 22 years—wasn’t what he or anyone within the football program expected, but he’s confident that Luke Fickell has the Badgers on the right path.
"Obviously, the last two years weren’t what I envisioned or what Coach Fickell envisioned," Wohler said. "Coach Fick is a great coach. I have 100% faith that he’s going to get that program in the right place. They have the pieces in place to put together a really good program and put something together that will be special.
“I trust that in the next few years, they’ll be right there competing for Big Ten championships, and making their way in the playoff and making us alumni proud."
Now, Wohler is focused on his next chapter. A projected late round pick, he’s looking to showcase his versatility and football IQ to NFL teams. His experience and well-rounded skill set make him an intriguing prospect, and he’s ready to prove that his best football is still ahead.
Wohler has already left his mark on Wisconsin football—now, he’s ready to make the most of his shot at the NFL.
The next step
Wohler has a chance to become the 13th defensive back from the Wisconsin football program to be selected since 2000. He’s projected as a Day 3 pick, but his love for the game and leadership could help him carve out a role in the NFL.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Wohler put his athleticism on display with a 4.58-second 40-yard dash on his second attempt after running an unofficial 4.63 on his first. He also showcased his explosiveness with a 37-inch vertical and a 10-foot broad jump, proving he has the physical tools to compete at the next level.
His overall combine testing resulted in an unofficial 9.55 Relative Athletic Score (RAS), ranking 50th out of 1,083 strong safeties from 1987 to 2025.
He also understands the reality of breaking into the NFL—it starts with doing the dirty work on special teams.
"It’s a great opportunity to make your name known," Wohler said. "Even if you don’t have a starting role coming into Week 1 of the season, make some plays on special teams, you get noticed and gives you a chance to play some meaningful snaps on defense. I’m fully aware I’ll have to play special teams, and I love it."
But beyond just making a roster, Wohler has the chance to hear his name called in his home state—a rare opportunity.
"That would’ve never crossed my mind," Wohler said of the NFL Draft being held in Green Bay. "Honestly, it’s special because I don’t think in my lifetime the draft will ever be in Green Bay again. It’s definitely special being from Wisconsin, playing in Wisconsin, and to have the opportunity to have my name called in Wisconsin as well."
While he hasn’t decided if he’ll attend the draft in person, one thing is certain—he’ll be surrounded by the people who have supported him every step of the way.
"I know I definitely am going to be around my family. I’m outgoing, but I don’t need a big party or anything," he said. "I’m not sure where yet, that’s still to be figured out, but I’ll be sitting between my parents."
No matter where the next chapter of his career begins, Wohler is ready to prove himself. Just like he always has.
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Great article on this outstanding young athlete. We can again only hope that the Packers reps and GM keep him in our midst by drafting him for the Packers.