**Texas Tech Lands Elite 2026 Linebacker Cord Nolan, Continues Defensive Recruiting Surge**
The Texas Tech Red Raiders are building something special on the defensive side of the ball, and their latest commitment is proof. On Friday, **Bixby (OK) linebacker Cord Nolan** became the sixth member of Texas Tech’s 2026 recruiting class—and the sixth defensive player to join the group. Nolan, a **Rivals 5.7 three-star prospect**, is the latest addition to a class that’s quickly becoming one of the most intriguing in the nation.
**Why Nolan’s Commitment Matters**
– **Elite Fit**: At **6-foot, 210 pounds**, Nolan is projected to play inside linebacker in defensive coordinator **Shiel Wood’s** system. His versatility and willingness to adapt make him a perfect fit for the Red Raiders’ defensive scheme.
– **Family Ties**: Nolan’s connection to Texas Tech runs deep. His grandparents met at the university, and his grandfather, **Ronnie Mercer**, played offensive line for the Red Raiders in the 1960s under head coach **J.T. King**.
– **Recruiting Momentum**: Nolan’s commitment adds to a growing defensive haul that includes **Tieson Ejiawoko, Ayden Johnson, Luke Bell, Krush Johnson, and Maddox Quiller**. The class currently ranks **29th nationally** in the Rivals Team Recruiting Rankings.
**Nolan’s Journey to Lubbock**
Nolan’s decision didn’t come out of nowhere. He’s been a frequent visitor to Lubbock, most recently attending Texas Tech’s **Junior Day** in January. After building strong relationships with **Shiel Wood** and **Dave Martin**—a longtime Oklahoma high school coach now on Texas Tech’s staff—Nolan knew Lubbock was the place for him.
*“Tech’s got something good going on, and I just wanted to go to a place where we can start winning Big 12 championships,”* Nolan said.
**What’s Next for Nolan and Texas Tech?**
– **Spring Visit**: Nolan plans to return to Lubbock on **April 10** as the Red Raiders kick off spring practice.
– **Official Visit**: He’ll also take an official visit in June, though the exact date hasn’t been set.
– **Recruiting Pipeline**: Nolan hopes to bring his Bixby High School teammates—**Braeden Presley** and **Trey McGlothlin**—with him to Texas Tech, though he’s letting them make their own decisions.
**The Bigger Picture**
Head coach **Joey McGuire** and his staff are assembling a defensive-heavy 2026 class that could lay the foundation for future success in the Big 12. With Nolan on board, the Red Raiders are one step closer to building a championship-caliber defense.
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**Key Takeaways**:
– **Cord Nolan**: 6’0”, 210-pound linebacker from Bixby, OK.
– **Family Legacy**: Grandfather played for Texas Tech in the 1960s.
– **Defensive Focus**: All six commits in the 2026 class are defensive players.
– **Class Ranking**: 29th nationally (Rivals).
For now, Nolan is focused on preparing for his senior season, but his commitment has already energized the Red Raiders’ fanbase. The future in Lubbock is looking brighter by the day.
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