Hoane, Zappitelli Commit to Cincinnati

Nic Cardwell added to Cincinnati's 2026 recruiting class yesterday, landing both Austin Hoane (Cookeville, TN) and Nate Zappitelli (Mentor, OH).

Zappitelli was the first of the two to commit to UC, following his official visit to Clifton over the weekend. The Lake Catholic High School lineman was scheduled to visit Pitt next weekend and ultimately chose the Bearcats over offers from Pitt, West Virginia, and Wake Forest, among others. 

At 6'4" 260 lbs, Zappitelli will slot in as either a guard or center once he arrives on campus.

The second commitment of the day came in the form of Cookeville, TN lineman Austin Hoane.

Hoane chose the Bearcats over interest from Appalachian State, Memphis, Liberty, and West Virginia, among others.

Hoane has a similar build to Zappitelli, standing 6'4", but is a little heavier at a listed 280 lbs. Hoane will also most likely slot in at either guard or center once he arrives on campus. 

During his 2024 season, Hoane was the 4-6A Offensive Player of the Year and is a two-time All State Selection. On film, Hoane plays with a physicality and edge, staying on his blocks downfield and not stopping until the whistle blows. 

The duo join Ohio native Luke Collins, as well as Georgia product Solomon Mathis as offensive linemen to commit to the Bearcats during the 2026 cycle.