2021 CB Ricardo Hallman signs with Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Badgers have had success with South Florida cornerbacks, and on Wednesday they officially landed another one. Taking part in early signing day, Ricardo Hallman decided to put pen to paper and sign on with the Badgers on Wednesday.

Ranked as a four-star prospect from Rivals, and a three-star by 247Sports, Hallman is a longer corner at 6-foot and has tremendous ball skills. Playing at two of the better schools in South Florida, he has been part of winning teams the past two seasons, including a state championship recently to cap off his senior year.

Used to a high level of competition, Hallman should be prepared for the rigors of Big Ten play, and has high upside given his combination of length, speed and ball skills. While the Badgers return the better part of their depth at corner, defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard has shown a willingness to rotate in and play his young defensive backs if they prove to be ready.

Rankings

247 Composite: 3 stars; grade: .8687; No. 642 player in the nation; No. 52 CB; No. 88 FL

247 Sports: 3 stars; grade: 85; No. 98 CB; No. 127 FL

Rivals: 4 stars; 5.8 rating; No. 30 CB; No. 38 FL

ESPN: 3 stars; Grade: 75; No. 96 CB; No. 508 Regional; No. 166 FL

Verbally committed on June 22, 2020

The Badgers were able to close down Ricardo Hallman’s recruitment back in late June despite Hallman never visiting campus due to COVID-19. A strong relationship with defensive backs coach Jim Leonhard, and the strong track record for South Florida corners in Madison eased any concerns he may have had though.

Hallman chose Wisconsin over other offers from Arkansas, Baylor, Boston College, Iowa State, Louisville, Miami, Michigan, Ole Miss and Penn State.

One of two cornerbacks to sign on with the Badgers on Wednesday, Hallman appears to be another strong get at the cornerback position for Jim Leonhard to work with.

Video highlights

Player bio (courtesy of UW Athletic Department)

• Three-star recruit by 247 Sports, ESPN and Rivals
• Played senior season at TRU Prep Academy after University School’s season was canceled
• South Florida Sun Sentinel first-team All-County pick as a junior at University School
• Recorded eight interceptions and 17 tackles as a junior.