Wisconsin football class of 2026 cornerback target commits to SEC power
Theodore, who received his offer from Luke Fickell's program back on Feb. 11, elected to join Josh Heupel and the Volunteers over finalists Wisconsin, Louisville and Ole Miss. The 6-foot, 171-pound defensive back officially visited Madison the weekend of June 6, preceding visits with the Rebels (June 10), Volunteers (June 13) and Cardinals (June 20).
The Chattanooga, Tennessee, native was projected to land in Knoxville by 247Sports analyst Nick Osen on June 30. On3's recruiting prediction machine also pegged the Volunteers as a heavy favorite with over an 86% chance to land the three-star cornerback.
In addition to his three-star profile, 247Sports considers Theodore the No. 768 overall recruit, the No. 64 cornerback and the No. 20 player from his home state of Tennessee for the class of 2026. During his 2024 slate at Baylor High School, the rising senior logged five interceptions, two pick-sizes and 18 pass breakups.
Here's 247Sports' scouting analyst Gabe Brooks's analysis of what Theodore -- a two-sport athlete in football and track -- brings to the gridiron:
"Hyper-aware cornerback prospect with valuable two-way experience and corresponding ball skills. Adept at breaking on throws from off coverage and will get mitts in the catch window even if the INT isn't there... Could provide flexibility in the secondary with anticipatory acumen and ball-hawking play style that translate to safety and nickel as well. Displays the desired competitive field demeanor for the corner position... Projects to the Power Four level as a natural corner with potential position flexibility who could become a quality starter with special teams value.:
While Theodore's decision is somewhat of a disappointment for Badger fans, it doesn't come as much of a surprise. As of July 1, Wisconsin's class of 2026 boasts the No. 38 ranking in the country and No. 13 position in the Big Ten with 15 players committed. Three-star cornerback Carsen Eloms and three-star safety Zachary Taylor are the only defensive backs to pledge their commitments to Wisconsin this cycle to date.
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