Villanova Football Recruiting
Villanova Football Earns Commitment from DL Thomas Coates
Villanova Football offered 2026 offensive/defensive lineman Thomas Coates last week, and now they’ve secured his commitment.
Coates, who attends Maryland’s Urbana High School, also had a Division I offer from Morgan State. The 6-foot-2, 300 pound lineman announced his decision in a Twitter post.
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for blessing me with the ability to play the game I love. Thank you to my family, coaches, trainers, and everyone who has supported me on this journey,” read Coates’ announcement. “After much prayer, thought, and conversation with those closest to me… I’m 1000% COMMITTED to Villanova University!”
The accompanying graphic listed him as a defensive lineman, clearing up one of the biggest questions regarding his recruiting. A rising senior, Coates plays on both sides of the line, and both Villanova offensive line coach Sean Devine and defensive line coach/defensive coordinator Ross Pennypacker played a role in bringing him on campus.
The 2026 season, Coates first, will mark a major stepping stone for the Wildcats. That’s because they’ll climb from the CAA to the Patriot League, one of the most prestigious conferences in all of Division I – FCS.
Beyond Coates, the Wildcats’ defensive line room has had a busy week, as they recently earned the commitment of Mt. Lebanon defensive lineman Jackson Kraemer.
