Wisconsin is gearing up for a unique honor that will be decided by the fans. A public poll, scheduled to run through August 28 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time, will identify the state’s top returning edge rusher for the upcoming 2026 season. The initiative, organized by the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association in partnership with 247sports.com and Bound.com, aims to celebrate the achievements of a select group of seniors rather than hand out formal trophies.
The standout performers
Among the highlighted names, Brady Bauer of Lourdes Academy earned WFCA all‑state honorable mention after recording 60 tackles, 43 solo, 5.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Ryan Dahms from Sussex Hamilton followed with a second‑team All‑Greater Metro Conference nod, tallying 41 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Cole Dunlavey of Black Hawk‑Warren secured first‑team All‑Six Rivers Conference honors with 48 tackles, 18 for loss and three sacks.
Evan Fagnan of New Richmond added a dominant performance, posting 36 tackles, 20 for loss and 6.5 sacks to earn first‑team All‑Big Rivers Conference status. Reed Falk from Middleton, a first‑team All‑Big Eight selection, accumulated 63 tackles, 28 solo, 11 for loss and 8.5 sacks. Sam Follen of Waunakee, recognized in the Badger Conference’s Large Division, logged 46 solo stops and 20 for loss while adding 3.5 sacks.
Dante Glendenning of Darlington, also an honorable mention, contributed 80 tackles, 45 solo, 19 for loss and 2.5 sacks, rounding out a diverse list of leaders from across the state.
The poll’s organizers stress that the vote is purely celebratory, offering no material rewards but spotlighting the athletes’ hard work. Fans are encouraged to review the full list of candidates and cast their support before the deadline, helping to shape a narrative that will carry into the next season.