The stars of 2025-26 St. Thomas Football
Doug Brown (VYPE)
After a postseason surge that carried them to the TAPPS-6A State Semifinals, the St. Thomas Eagles enter the 2025 season with momentum – and a new head coach at the helm.
Raymond Davis, formerly the team’s assistant and defensive coordinator, steps into the lead role following Rich McGuire’s departure to Southeastern Oklahoma State. The Eagles finished 7-6 in 2024, highlighted by playoff wins over Trinity Christian (31-19) and St. Michael’s (21-7) before falling to powerhouse Liberty Christian-Argyle in the title game. Now, with a seasoned core returning on both sides of the ball, St. Thomas looks poised for another shot at the division crown.
Defensively, senior edge rusher Obinna Umeh headlines the unit after earning first-team, all-state honors. A recent Duke-commit, Umeh (58 tackles, 19 TFL, 5.5 sacks) brings elite athleticism and pass-rushing ability, paired with critical instincts. He’s joined by fellow seniors Liam McCarthy (125 tackles, 27 TFL) and Max Moore, forming a disruptive linebacking corps that gives St. Thomas a disciplined identity.
St. Thomas Sr. OLB/DE Obinna UmehDoug Brown (VYPE)
On offense, Nate Tidwell (Sr. WR) returns as a top playmaker after a 1,000-yard receiving season, while senior Javaughn Waldron adds versatility out of the backfield, having led the team with 11 combined scores a year ago. Junior quarterback Pierce Jacobson, who split snaps last year, is expected to take over full-time duties and could thrive with more opportunities.
Another notable target for Jacobson to utilize is senior second-teamer Derek Stevenson (566 yards, 6 TDs). Meanwhile, anchoring the line will be center Alexander Pompilus, also entering his senior year. Special teams remain in good hands – or good feet, rather – with Michael Taylor II, a second-team, all-state kicker who brings consistency and range.
With Davis being provided with such continuity to the program and a proven core returning, the Eagles will be eager to take the next step – and this time, finish the job.
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