The Tulane Green Wave are building a strong 2026 recruiting class as they look to land a touted lineman among college football.
The Tulane Green Wave is setting its sights beyond the 2025 college football season, prioritizing the development and enhancement of their recruiting class.
Head coach Jon Sumrall is competing against several Power 4 programs to secure a promising offensive lineman from the 2026 class. Blaise Thomassie, a local talent from Baton Rouge, La., has scheduled visits with seven schools, as reported by Sam Spiegelman of Rivals, with Tulane being the only Group of Five team on his list.
Regarded as a top contender for Thor’s commitment, Tulane has an official visit planned for March 29. Thomassie’s first stop will be the Florida Gators, the team that defeated the Green Wave in the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl, followed by the Houston Cougars, who are led by former Tulane coach Willie Fritz.
After that, he will visit Tulane, along with the Ole Miss Rebels, Kansas State Wildcats, Oklahoma State Cowboys, and TCU Horned Frogs.
Thomassie, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 290 pounds, ranks as the No. 16 prospect in Louisiana and No. 30 nationally for his position, according to Rivals. As a key player on the line at Catholic High with the versatility to play both offensive tackle and center, Thomassie’s value has risen, making him a highly sought-after recruit.
While the Green Wave football team faces numerous uncertainties in the short term, having a long-term vision for the program is crucial for maintaining its culture and success. The offensive line is perhaps the most vital element for any team’s prosperity; without solid protection, it doesn’t matter who the starting quarterback is.
If injuries affect starters, teams need depth players who are prepared to step in and ideally can adapt to various positions along the line. Tulane experienced health challenges in the 2023 season, and current starting left guard Shadre Hurst proved invaluable with his ability to play left and right guard, as well as right tackle.
Sumrall also emphasized lineman Caleb Thomas, who showcased the flexibility to fill in as a tight end if necessary last season. Offensive linemen are vital to achieving Sumrall’s goal of establishing a blue-collar mentality for his team and are essential for the stability of a football program.
Many Group of Five teams may shy away from pursuing prospects targeted by Power Four programs, but Sumrall’s proactive approach provides a competitive edge that can make a significant difference.
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