Former Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Vinny Anthony is turning heads as the 2026 NFL season approaches, with early projections suggesting he could secure a starting role for the Atlanta Falcons. The 22-year-old, who amassed over 1,000 receiving yards during his three-year stint in Madison, went undrafted but has quickly become one of the most talked-about UDFA signings for the Falcons—especially given that no Wisconsin players were selected in the draft this year.

According to Falcons Wire's Matt Urben, Anthony is projected to step in as the team's primary kick returner. While Urben cautions that it's still early in the process, the nod is a promising sign for the former Badger. "Third-round pick Zachariah Branch is our projected starting punt returner and UDFA Vinny Anthony II is our projected starting kick return man. Obviously, it's extremely early, but these are battles to watch throughout the team's training camp," Urben noted.

Beyond special teams, Anthony is also listed as the No. 2 wide receiver on the depth chart behind Jahan Dotson. He'll be competing for targets in a Falcons offense that already features standout receivers like Drake London, rookie Zachariah Branch, and tight end Kyle Pitts. If Anthony can carry his college momentum into training camp, he could be a key piece for Atlanta's passing game and return units alike.