Maryland Football Welcomes Kyle Schmitt as Tight Ends Coach
Maryland football fans are poised to see a familiar face on the sidelines, as the program announced the hiring of Kyle Schmitt as the Terrapins’ new Tight Ends coach. The appointment, made by Head Coach Michael Locksley, brings a proven leader and former Terrapin back to College Park.
A Return to College Park
Schmitt returns to the University of Maryland after establishing himself as a highly successful high school coach in the state. Since 2013, he has served as the Head Football Coach at Archbishop Spalding, consistently guiding the Cavaliers to success at both the state and national levels. Notably, six players currently on the Maryland football roster are alumni of Schmitt’s program at Spalding, signaling a strong recruiting connection.
“Bringing Kyle back home is incredibly meaningful for our program,” Locksley stated. “He’s a Terp and understands what Maryland football is about. He’s proven over many years that he can mentor young men and develop talent at a high level. Kyle’s leadership, teaching ability, and strong relationships throughout the state make him a great addition to our staff.”
From the Gridiron to the Sidelines: Schmitt’s Background
Schmitt’s connection to the Maryland football program extends beyond his recent hiring. He is a proud alumnus, having played for the Terrapins from 2001 to 2004. Following a redshirt freshman year, Schmitt became a key contributor on the offensive line, participating in 48 career games with 27 starts at both center and guard. His collegiate career reached a high point with a start in the Orange Bowl following Maryland’s impressive 10-win season in 2001.
He continued to excel, becoming a cornerstone of the offensive line in 2003, starting every game at center and earning All-ACC Honorable Mention honors. That season included a significant road victory against NC State and a dominant 41-7 win over West Virginia in the Gator Bowl. Schmitt anchored the offensive line again as a redshirt senior in 2004, starting every game.
Professional Football and Coaching Journey
Following his time at Maryland, Schmitt pursued a professional football career. He signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Vikings after the 2005 NFL Draft and spent time with the team during the preseason. He then gained international experience playing in NFL Europe, starting six games with the Cologne Centurions and also playing for the Amsterdam Admirals and Berlin Thunder. Schmitt also had a stint with the Arizona Cardinals in January 2006, participating in their training camp.
Schmitt transitioned to coaching in 2006, beginning his career as the tight ends coach at St. Vincent College before moving into the high school ranks. Prior to his tenure at Archbishop Spalding, he served as the head football coach at Atholton High School from 2009 to 2013, where he worked to elevate the program.
Schmitt holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Maryland, earned in 2005, and a Master’s of Education in Policy and Leadership from Maryland, completed between 2007 and 2009. His family’s legacy with the Terrapins continues through his brother, Andrew, who served as a long snapper for the team.
The hiring of Kyle Schmitt represents a strategic move for the Maryland football program, bringing back a dedicated alumnus and proven coach to develop the next generation of Terrapin tight ends.
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