Representing the town of Zimmerman, located around an hour Northwest of the Twin Cities and holding around 6,500 people, 2026 WR/OLB Noah Schmit is a big part of the Thunder’s ultra-talented 2026 class of prospects, one that is competing for top dog status in both the Outstate and the entire Land of 10,000 Lakes. Schmit is a still-growing 6’2, 180 with room to fill in, and was a two-way contributor in 2023, posting 9 receptions for 185 yards and 2 TDs and 11 tackles, 4 TFLs, 2 sacks, and 3 FFs, and is a multi-sport as well, playing centerfield for the Thunder’s baseball team.

Despite limited defensive reps, and with the 3 FFs as evidence, Schmit is one of the hardest hitters in the entire 2026 class and has a knack for jarring the ball loose. He’s an effective blitzer who is productive from a two-point stance at the edge of the LOS and can dip & rip and beat blockers with bend, or quickness – comes tight off the tackles backside and closes quickly in space. He also lines up as an off-ball OLB, showing that he can drop into passing in coverage, come downhill and close space with speed and acceleration, and is a thumper who can tackle in space. The kid is a legit two-way contributor with some real game as a WR as well, due in large part to his speed. He uses it to take the top off the defense and finish big runs when given space, and that speed also shows up defensively, both when closing and in pursuit. Schmit brings length to the table, and he accelerates out of his breaks and can make catches in traffic and through contact. I also like his physicality and technique as a blocker out on the perimeter. Dynamic, physical, fast, instinctive, Schmit has an abundance of good things going for him and really gets me excited about his potential development as a prospect.

Schmit emerges as a standout player, demonstrating exceptional versatility as both a wide receiver and linebacker. His receiving ability is highlighted by great mechanics when addressing the ball, accompanied by soft hands that consistently secure catches. Schmit’s proficient use of a well-executed double move adds an extra layer of intricacy to his route running, and his respectable speed enables him to stretch defenses vertically. Notably, his willingness to contribute as a blocker makes him a reliable option on the outside to help out in the run game. On the defensive side of the ball, Schmit’s tenacity and relentless pursuit are evident, particularly in his role as an edge rusher. His impressive get-off on the end, combined with a surplus of power and strength, manifests in impactful tackles. Schmit’s reputation as a hard-hitting defender makes things very tough for opposing offenses. Most of his hits have a lasting impact on the ball carrier, and Schmit can disrupt the flow of an offense.