Breaking: 2026 4-Star RB Shahn Alston Flips Commitment to Wisconsin Badgers After Posting Blazing 22.4 MPH Speed
The Wisconsin Badgers have struck gold on the recruiting trail, landing 2026 four-star running back Shahn Alston, a rising talent whose recent performance has turned heads across the nation. Alston, known for his game-changing explosiveness, made headlines after being clocked at a blistering **22.4 MPH** in a recent workout—an elite speed that puts him in rare company for high school prospects. Initially committed to another Big Ten program, Alston’s decision to flip his commitment to Wisconsin solidifies the Badgers’ growing reputation as a destination for elite running backs.
### **The Decision to Flip to Wisconsin**
Shahn Alston’s recruitment has been one of the most closely watched stories in the 2026 cycle. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound running back originally committed to Michigan State earlier this year, but a series of standout performances and Wisconsin’s persistent recruiting efforts ultimately swayed him to change course.
In his official announcement, Alston praised Wisconsin’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Luke Fickell and running backs coach Devon Spalding, for their vision and development plan.
“Wisconsin felt like home,” Alston said during his announcement. “Coach Fickell and Coach Spalding made it clear how much they believe in me and how they plan to utilize my skill set. The tradition of great running backs here speaks for itself, and I want to be a part of that legacy.”
### **Blazing Speed That Sets Him Apart**
Alston’s recent display of speed—**22.4 MPH**—is nothing short of jaw-dropping. For context, speeds like this rival some of the fastest NFL running backs and wide receivers. GPS data from high school showcases has increasingly become a tool for evaluating top-tier athleticism, and Alston’s numbers are turning heads.
His combination of size and speed gives him the ability to break through defensive lines while outrunning second-level defenders with ease. Scouts and analysts have taken note of his potential to be a multi-dimensional back, capable of handling 20-plus carries a game while also being a threat in the passing game.
Recruiting expert Adam Freedman of Rivals shared his thoughts on Alston:
“Shahn Alston’s speed is elite, and what separates him is his ability to combine that top-end speed with power and agility. He hits the hole hard, but once he gets into the open field, he’s gone. Wisconsin got themselves an absolute game-changer here.”
### **Wisconsin’s Running Back Tradition Continues**
The Wisconsin Badgers are no strangers to elite running backs. From legends like Ron Dayne and Montee Ball to recent stars like Jonathan Taylor and Braelon Allen, Wisconsin has built its identity on a dominant ground game. Alston’s commitment ensures that tradition continues well into the future.
With the Badgers’ revamped offensive system under Luke Fickell, Alston will likely be the focal point of a ground-and-pound attack that blends power running with explosive plays. His elite speed will give the offense a new dynamic and provide nightmares for opposing defenses in the Big Ten.
### **Recruiting Momentum for Wisconsin**
Landing a talent like Shahn Alston has ripple effects far beyond the field. His commitment is a statement to other top recruits that Wisconsin is building something special under Fickell. The Badgers’ 2026 class is already shaping up to be one of their best, with Alston being the crown jewel of the group so far.
“Recruits want to play with guys like Shahn,” said 247Sports recruiting analyst Steve Wiltfong. “Wisconsin getting a player of his caliber this early sends a clear message that they are serious about competing for championships in the future.”
### **What’s Next for Alston and the Badgers**
As Alston prepares for his junior season of high school, expectations will only continue to grow. With his elite speed and physical running style, he will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched running backs in the country. Wisconsin fans, meanwhile, can already start dreaming about the day he takes the field at Camp Randall Stadium.
For Wisconsin, landing Shahn Alston represents more than just a win in recruiting—it’s a statement that they remain a force in the Big Ten and are ready to compete at the highest level. With his blazing 22.4 MPH speed and all-around ability, Shahn Alston could very well be the next great running back to wear the Badgers’ iconic red and white.
**Conclusion**
Wisconsin’s 2026 recruiting class just got significantly better with the addition of Shahn Alston, a four-star running back whose elite speed and dynamic playmaking ability have turned him into one of the nation’s most coveted prospects. By flipping his commitment, Alston has set the stage for a bright future with the Badgers, and fans can’t wait to see him light up the Big Ten. For now, all eyes will be on his continued development and what he’ll bring to Wisconsin’s storied tradition of powerhouse running backs.
