Ohio DL Drayden Pavey commits to Wisconsin

Cincinnati (Ohio) Taft 2025 defensive lineman Drayden Pavey tells On3 he has committed to Wisconsin.

The 6-foot-3, 305-pound Pavey had been a verbal to Purdue since early July. He decommitted last week. Head coach Luke Fickell and his staff stayed on him and now have the prized Midwest defensive lineman in the fold.

“I believe in Coach Fick’s vision for Wisconsin,” Pavey told On3. “I loved him when he was at UC, and if he was still there I would have went to UC. So that’s how much I trust in him. Also helps that he has played my position and that he is a defensive-minded coach first.

“His ability to put guys in the league.”

The On3 Industry tabs Pavey as the nation’s No. 67 defensive lineman. He becomes commit No. 24 for Wisconsin in the class, adding to a haul that previously ranked No. 24 in the country.

“Madison is beautiful place, great college town as well,” Pavey said. “The fanbase rocks to Jump Around so I gotta be a part of that atmosphere.”

Pavey was a top target for the Badgers.

Coach EJ (Whitlow) and Coach Pat (Lambert) have seen what I can do and I love how much they believe in my abilities to come in and make an impact early.”