It seems as though after his performance at last year’s Trenchlab Gauntlet, Nick Costa Nick Costa 6'4" | 240 lbs | DL/EDGE St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ ‘s stock immediately shot up. It may seem like a case of iron-sharpening-iron as Costa played along the same defensive line as New Jersey’s #3 prospect Damari Simeon Damari Simeon 6'3" | 270 lbs | DL St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ . Costa gains a lot of ground on his first two steps and extends nicely. As a backside bender, he scrapes back down the line flat. Likely off the strength of his pass rushing prowess, Costa has recently earned offers from Air Force, Richmond, Main, Bucknell, New Hampshire, Road Island, Army, Wofford, Navy, Bryant and Fordham.

Original Ranking: 109
New Ranking: 98
Stock Increase: +11

Nick Costa Nick Costa 6'4" | 240 lbs | DL/EDGE St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ from St. Augustine is heading to Northwestern. The 6’4” edge rusher broke out during the New Jersey playoffs and showed he’s a high-upside prospect. With his size, motor, and strength, Costa brings the physical tools to develop into a productive Big Ten defender. Northwestern is getting a gritty, ascending edge talent.

Nick Costa Nick Costa 6'4" | 240 lbs | DL/EDGE St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ earns the superlative for most likely to break out. His playoff performance against Delbarton gave a glimpse of what’s to come. In that game, he made a significant impact in the run game, proving he can be a force as a defender.

Physically, Nick has all the tools. He boasts long arms, a tall frame built to add weight and a solid first step off the snap. His size and athleticism make him a prime candidate for a breakout season.

This year feels like the one where he puts it all together. He already holds multiple Division I offers, and playing alongside fellow standout Damari Simon should only elevate his game. If he continues to develop, expect Nick Costa Nick Costa 6'4" | 240 lbs | DL/EDGE St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ to emerge as one of the top defensive playmakers in New Jersey.

Nick Costa Nick Costa 6'4" | 240 lbs | DL/EDGE St. Augustine | 2026 State NJ of St. Augustine is a defensive playmaker with his prototypical edge rusher build: 6’4”, 230 pounds. His tall, long frame is a coach’s dream, and his ability to add more weight and maintain explosiveness makes him a high-ceiling prospect. Nick showed his full array of skills during the playoff game, where his relentless motor and effort were on full display, leading to multiple tackles for loss.

Against the run, Nick is stout and instinctual, demonstrating the ability to read plays effectively, especially in read-option situations. His motor sets him apart, as he consistently makes plays through sheer determination and hustle. While Nick’s physical traits and instincts are impressive, his best football is undoubtedly ahead of him.

With time and development, Nick can become a significant impact player at the next level. He projects as a high-upside prospect for a Power 5 program, likely benefiting from a redshirt year to fill out his frame and refine his technique. Pairing with defensive tackle Damari Simon should only help Nick elevate his game, and he’s primed for a breakout senior season in 2026. Keep an eye on him as one of the most promising edge rushers in the state.

Nicolas Costa, a 6’4”, 230-pound edge rusher from the class of 2026, showcased his immense potential and disruptive ability in St. Augustine’s playoff victory over Delbarton. Costa was a constant thorn in the side of the Delbarton offense, forcing two fumbles and recovering one, proving his knack for creating game-changing plays.

What stands out about Costa is his physical profile—his tall, long frame makes him a prototypical edge rusher, and his high motor ensures he is involved in nearly every play. His ability to use his hands effectively and his instincts to read and react made him a critical factor in neutralizing Del Barton’s offensive threats. Costa’s performance underscored his status as a rising star and a pivotal piece of St. Augustine’s defensive front.