In a thrilling development for Wisconsin football, the Badgers have successfully secured the commitment of 2026 4-star quarterback Brady Smigiel, who recently decommitted from Florida State. Smigiel, an elite quarterback from Newbury Park High School in California, had initially committed to the Seminoles but decided to re-evaluate his options before ultimately choosing Wisconsin as his future destination.
Smigiel, widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class, has gained attention for his impressive physical tools, including his arm strength, poise, and ability to read defenses. His decision to switch his commitment to Wisconsin comes as a surprise to many, given his previous pledge to Florida State, but the Badgers were able to sell him on their development program and the opportunity to thrive in their offense.
“I’m excited to be a part of the Wisconsin Badgers family,” Smigiel said in a statement. “The tradition of success, the coaching staff, and the chance to develop as a quarterback at such a respected program made Wisconsin the perfect place for me. I’m ready to get started and help the team win championships.”
Smigiel’s commitment to Wisconsin represents a significant victory for head coach Luke Fickell and his staff as they continue to build the program’s future. With the Badgers focusing on developing a balanced, powerful offense, Smigiel’s dual-threat ability and strong arm make him a great fit for their system. The addition of a 4-star quarterback gives Wisconsin a legitimate star to build around, and it positions the program for long-term success.
For Florida State, losing a top-tier quarterback like Smigiel is a tough blow, especially after securing his initial commitment. However, the Seminoles will continue their efforts to land other highly-rated quarterbacks, as they aim to remain competitive in the ACC and on the national stage.
For Wisconsin fans, the acquisition of Smigiel marks an exciting moment for the program, as they now have a highly-touted quarterback to lead them into the future. With his commitment, the Badgers have added a game-changing talent to their recruiting class and strengthened their position among the nation’s top programs.
