Notre Dame Lands Commitment from 4-Star Texas Defensive Lineman Tiki Hola
Notre Dame football added another major piece to its 2026 recruiting class on Saturday with the commitment of four-star defensive lineman Tiki Hola. The 6-foot-3, 285-pound standout from Bastrop High School in Bastrop, Texas, announced his pledge to the Fighting Irish, choosing Notre Dame over finalists USC and SMU. Hola’s decision is a significant win for the Irish, as he also held offers from some of the nation’s top programs, including Texas, Georgia, LSU, Michigan, and others.
Hola becomes the 15th commitment in Notre Dame’s 2026 class, joining a group that continues to build momentum early in the cycle. He is also the second consecutive pledge from the state of Texas, showing the program’s growing recruiting footprint in the Lone Star State. According to the 247Sports Composite Team Rankings, Notre Dame currently holds the No. 2 recruiting class in the country for 2026.
From a football standpoint, Hola projects as a nose tackle at the next level. He already carries solid size at 285 pounds and has the frame and length to bulk up to over 300 pounds in Notre Dame’s strength and conditioning program without losing his athleticism. What stands out most in his film is his tenacity, high motor, and physical style of play. While he may not project as a premier pass rusher, Hola’s relentless effort and power at the point of attack make him a strong run defender.
Many see similarities between Hola and former Notre Dame defensive tackle Kurt Hinish, who was a multi-year starter and a key figure in establishing the team’s physical identity on the defensive line. Hola could develop into a larger version of Hinish, bringing the same fiery mentality and work ethic that defined Hinish’s time in South Bend.
Though Notre Dame may not currently boast a roster full of five-star defensive tackles, the staff continues to assemble a group of physically and mentally tough players capable of making a difference on every down. Hola fits that mold perfectly. His playing style aligns with the culture that head coach Marcus Freeman and the defensive staff are instilling across the program — one built on toughness, discipline, and consistency.
With the addition of Hola, the Irish are in a strong position defensively for the future. His commitment also helps address long-term depth at the position, especially considering that current DT standout Donovan Hinish will have just one year of eligibility left when Hola arrives on campus. Hola’s presence ensures continuity and adds another potential culture leader in the locker room.
Notre Dame is expected to continue targeting defensive tackles in this class, with at least one more likely to join Hola. But with this commitment, the Irish have taken a big step forward, securing a high-upside lineman who brings the right combination of size, effort, and attitude to the table.
Tiki Hola’s commitment is another strong signal that Notre Dame is building something special in the 2026 class — one gritty, talented player at a time.
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