Drew Fontana, a junior offensive tackle at the United States Naval Academy, has become one of the most vocal voices in the Midshipmen’s locker room, offering a glimpse into the daily grind that defines college football at the service academy.
The Path to Annapolis
Fontana chose Navy over a handful of other programs, including Duquesne, Sacred Heart, Army and Brown, a decision he says was driven by the promise of a Brotherhood that stretches far beyond the field.
He repeatedly points to the coaching staff, the camaraderie among teammates, and the program’s recent successes as the core reasons he remains committed to the Navy way of life.
Teammates to Watch
Looking ahead to the 2026 campaign, Fontana is already mapping out the players he believes will surprise opponents, naming Charles Robinson as a potential offensive spark and Aaron Rose as a defensive wildcard.
Both predictions are rooted in the trust he places in his peers, a trust that has been built through countless hours of film study, weight room sessions, and the relentless mental toughness required of every midshipman.
Life Beyond the Gridiron
Off the field, Fontana balances a rigorous academic schedule with a love for Instagram, where he follows the Pittsburgh Steelers and shares snippets of his own routine. His favorite class during plebe year was English, a subject he credits to the guidance of Capt. Tortora and Professor Weber.
When asked about a dream vacation, he points to Dubai, a destination that reflects his fascination with global culture, while his favorite uniform combination — white on white — symbolizes the clean slate he seeks each game.
Representing a Legacy
For Fontana, wearing the navy blue across his chest is more than a uniform choice; it is a representation of a long line of service members and the unspoken promise to honor those who came before.
He often repeats a mantra from Coach Newberry: “Be where your feet are,” a reminder that focus and presence are as vital in the classroom as they are in the trenches.
The mental resilience he has cultivated, he says, is a quality every successful midshipman must possess, and it is a lesson he hopes to pass on to younger teammates.
Among the many influences in his career, Isaac Bunker stands out as the player who impacted him the most upon arrival, shaping his approach to both play and leadership.
When asked about the future of the program, Fontana expresses confidence that the team will continue to grow closer, driven by a shared commitment to excellence and a desire to uphold the Academy’s proud football tradition.