COLLEGE PARK, MD – Maryland football Head Coach Michael Locksley has announced the hiring of Kyle Schmitt as the Terrapins' Tight Ends coach, it was announced today. Schmitt returns to College Park after building an impressive resume as one of the most successful high school coaches in the state of Maryland.

Schmitt has served as Head Football Coach at Archbishop Spalding since 2013, guiding the Cavaliers to sustained success at the state and national levels. There are six players on the current Maryland football roster who played for Schmitt at Spalding.

"Bringing Kyle back home is incredibly meaningful for our program," said Locksley. "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."

A Maryland alumnus, Schmitt played for the Terrapins from 2001-04 and later served as a graduate assistant with the program. After redshirting as a freshman, he became a key contributor along the offensive line, appearing in 48 career games with 27 starts at center and guard. He earned his first collegiate start in the Orange Bowl following Maryland's 10-win season in 2001.

Schmitt emerged as a cornerstone of the offensive line in 2003, starting every game at center and earning All-ACC Honorable Mention honors. That season included a road victory at NC State and a dominant 41-7 Gator Bowl win over West Virginia. As a redshirt senior in 2004, Schmitt again started every game, anchoring an experienced unit.

Following his Maryland career, Schmitt signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Vikings after the 2005 NFL Draft and spent the preseason with the team. He later played professionally in NFL Europe, starting six games with the Cologne Centurions, and also spent time with the Amsterdam Admirals and Berlin Thunder. Schmitt also signed with the Arizona Cardinals in January 2006 and participated in training camp.

Schmitt began his collegiate coaching career in 2006 as the tight ends coach at St. Vincent College before transitioning into high school coaching. He previously served as head football coach at Atholton High School from 2009-13, where he helped elevate the program before taking over at Archbishop Spalding.

Schmitt earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Maryland in 2005 and later completed a Master's of Education in Policy and Leadership at Maryland from 2007-09. His family ties to the program run deep, as his brother Andrew was a long snapper for the Terrapins.