The Navy Midshipmen enter the 2025 college football season with high expectations. After a surprising 10-3 campaign in 2024, defying preseason predictions of finishing 11th in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). Led by head coach Brian Newberry in his third year, the Midshipmen return a dynamic offensive core, including star quarterback Blake Horvath. They face a favorable schedule that could position them as AAC contenders. However, questions linger about their retooled defense and offensive line.
2025 Navy Midshipmen Roster Breakdown
Offense
Navy’s offense is orchestrated by offensive coordinator Drew Cronic. He blends triple-option and wing-T principles with modern shotgun sets. This creates a versatile attack tailored to quarterback Blake Horvath’s dual-threat abilities. The 2024 season saw Navy average 31.2 points per game, a significant improvement from 17.7 in 2023.
Quarterback: Blake Horvath (Senior)
Horvath is the centerpiece of Navy’s offense. He earned a spot on the College Football Network’s Top 100 Returning Players list for 2025. In 2024, he threw for 1,353 yards (13 TDs, 4 INTs) and rushed for 1,246 yards (17 TDs). He became the third Navy quarterback to surpass 1,200 yards passing and rushing in a single season. His 2,599 total offensive yards were the second-most in program history. He had two 90+ yard touchdown runs, showcasing elite speed and vision. Horvath’s ability to execute Cronic’s diverse playbook makes him a dark-horse candidate for All-AAC honors and potentially a Group of Five (G5) Heisman contender.
Running Backs: Eli Heidenreich (Junior), Alex Tecza (Junior), and Brandon Chatman (Junior)
Navy’s run-heavy offense thrives with its trio of versatile backs. Eli Heidenreich made history in 2024 as the first Navy player to record 100+ rushing and receiving yards in a single game. He finished with 39 receptions for 671 yards (6 TDs) and 444 rushing yards (3 TDs). His 52-yard touchdown catch against Army highlighted his big-play potential. Alex Tecza, a powerful runner, led Navy with 758 rushing yards and 5 TDs in 2023. He added a 32-yard receiving touchdown in the 2024 Army-Navy Game. Brandon Chatman is known for his infectious positivity. He complements the group with his speed and elusiveness. All three return, ensuring Navy’s run game remains a strength.
Wide Receiver: Nathan Kent (Junior)
Nathan Kent is poised for a breakout season after serving as a secondary option in 2024. With Heidenreich drawing defensive attention, Kent’s speed and route-running could see him emerge as a deep threat in Cronic’s offense. It incorporated more passing elements last season. His development will be critical to stretching defenses and opening lanes for the run game.
Offensive Line: Ben Purvis (Senior)
The offensive line is a potential concern, with only two starters returning. Ben Purvis is a 2024 All-AAC candidate. Navy’s triple-option and wing-T schemes demand precise blocking. The loss of three starters could disrupt chemistry early in the season. Newberry and Cronic will lean on the unit’s physicality and Navy’s tradition of developing linemen. However, the inexperience could be a hurdle against stronger AAC fronts like Memphis or Tulane.
Defense
Navy’s defense was a strength in 2023, ranking in the top third nationally (22.4 points allowed per game) and recording three shutouts. However, only four starters return in 2025. This raises concerns about depth and experience.
Defensive Line: Landon Robinson (Senior)
Landon Robinson is a 2024 All-AAC First Team nose guard and is Navy’s defensive anchor. He recorded 61 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles in 2024. Robinson earned a spot on Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List for his 450-pound bench press and 650-pound squat. His 13-tackle performance and 29-yard direct snap run on special teams in the Army-Navy Game showcased his versatility. Robinson is on the NFL radar, with scouts praising his strength and quickness.
Linebackers and Secondary: Andrew Duhart (Senior, DB)
Andrew Duhart is another All-AAC candidate. He anchors the secondary with his interception in the 2024 Army-Navy Game. The linebacker corps and secondary lose significant experience, with only three other starters returning. Newberry, a defensive-minded coach, will need to rely on his system’s discipline to integrate new faces. The defense’s ability to stop the run (second in the nation in 2023) will be tested early.
Special Teams
Navy’s special teams unit, led by players like Robinson, remains a strength. The Midshipmen’s disciplined approach and knack for game-changing plays (e.g., Robinson’s punt fake) give them an edge in close contests.
Navy’s Coach Brian Newberry at Spring Practice
2025 Recruiting Class
Navy announced a 67-player recruiting class for 2025. This was finalized on Induction Day, reflecting the service academy’s unique recruiting timeline. While specific names are less publicized due to Navy’s focus on development over star ratings, the class bolsters depth across positions. Particularly on the offensive and defensive lines, this addresses concerns about departing starters.
2025 Schedule Analysis
Navy’s 2025 schedule offers a mix of winnable games and tough tests. The Midshipmen play their home games at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland. This is a 34,000-seat venue known for its historical significance and picturesque setting.
Non-Conference Games
VMI Keydets (FCS)
A likely season-opening win against an FCS opponent, Navy has historically dominated.
Notre Dame (Neutral Site, MetLife Stadium)
A marquee matchup against the No. 12 Fighting Irish, who defeated Navy 51-14 in 2024 when the Midshipmen were ranked No. 24. This game will test Navy’s early-season readiness.
Bucknell (FCS)
Another winnable game, with Navy leading the series 9-4-1.
Army Black Knights (Rivalry Game)
The 125th Army-Navy Game in 2024 saw Navy triumph 31-13. This snapped Army’s two-year streak. The 2025 matchup is a must-win for pride and momentum. Navy is favored due to Horvath’s return.
AAC Conference Schedule
Navy’s AAC slate includes games against Memphis, Tulane, USF, Rice, and others. The Midshipmen face a favorable schedule, avoiding some of the conference’s top teams like UTSA early in the season. Key games include:
Memphis
A tough road test against a high-powered offense. Horvath’s dual-threat ability will be critical.
Tulane
Navy lost to No. 25 Tulane in 2024 (35-0), but a home matchup could tilt the scales.
USF
Navy fell 44-30 to USF in 2023. The Bulls’ fast-paced offense will challenge Navy’s depleted defense.
The AAC schedule is manageable. Navy is projected to be competitive in most games. A 10-1 record heading into the Army-Navy Game is plausible.
Key Questions for the 2025 Season
Does Blake Horvath’s Return Make Navy a College Football Playoff Contender?
Horvath’s breakout 2024 season (2,599 total yards, 30 total TDs) positions Navy as a G5 contender. However, a College Football Playoff (CFP) berth is a stretch. To reach the 12-team CFP, Navy would need to go undefeated or lose only to Notre Dame. Plus, they need to win the AAC Championship and secure the G5’s automatic bid. Horvath’s dual-threat prowess gives Navy a chance to dominate AAC opponents, but losses to top-tier teams like Notre Dame or a slip-up in conference play could derail their chances. Navy’s ceiling is likely a New Year’s Six bowl, but a perfect or near-perfect season could spark CFP buzz.
Will the Run Game Be Even Better in 2025 with Heidenreich, Chatman, and Tecza?
The return of Heidenreich, Chatman, and Tecza ensures Navy’s run game remains elite. Heidenreich’s versatility (1,115 all-purpose yards in 2024), Tecza’s power, and Chatman’s speed create a three-headed monster that complements Horvath’s rushing ability. With another year in Cronic’s system, which blends triple-option, wing-T, and shotgun formations, the run game could surpass 2024’s 5.2 yards per carry average. Expect Navy to rank among the FBS leaders in rushing yards again, provided the offensive line gels.
Will the Offense Improve with Another Year in Drew Cronic’s System?
Cronic’s “Sling-T” offense transformed Navy from a 17.7 points-per-game unit in 2023 to 31.2 in 2024. With Horvath, Heidenreich, Tecza, and Chatman returning, and a full offseason to refine the playbook, the offense should be even more explosive. Cronic’s ability to tailor the scheme to Horvath’s strengths suggests further growth. Adding wrinkles to the passing game could make Navy less predictable, especially if Kent emerges as a reliable target.
Is the Offensive Line a Concern with Only Two Starters Back?
The loss of three offensive line starters is a legitimate concern, as Navy’s run-heavy scheme relies on cohesive blocking. Ben Purvis provides leadership, but integrating new starters could lead to early-season struggles against physical defenses like Notre Dame or Memphis. Navy’s history of developing linemen and the system’s emphasis on technique over raw talent mitigate some worries. But the line’s performance in the first four games will be telling.
Can Brian Newberry Keep Navy Heading in the Right Direction?
Newberry has revitalized Navy. He led them to a 10-3 record and an Armed Forces Bowl win in 2024. His defensive expertise and ability to foster a culture of “love and trust” have elevated the program. With Horvath and key offensive players returning, Newberry’s challenge will be rebuilding the defense while maintaining offensive momentum. His track record suggests he can keep Navy competitive, potentially vying for an AAC title.
Should Navy Be the AAC Favorite?
Navy’s 10-3 record and returning offensive stars make them a strong contender. However, teams like Memphis, Tulane, and UTSA pose threats. Navy’s favorable schedule and Horvath’s leadership give them a case to be the preseason favorite, especially if the defense adapts quickly. A projected 9-3 or 10-2 record could secure a spot in the AAC Championship Game, but they’ll need to outperform expectations again to claim the crown.
Does Returning Only Four Defensive Starters Raise Concerns?
The defense’s loss of seven starters is a significant concern, particularly after ranking in the top third nationally in 2023. Landon Robinson and Andrew Duhart provide a foundation, but inexperience at linebacker and in the secondary could lead to early struggles against pass-heavy AAC offenses. Newberry’s defensive acumen should help, but the unit may need time to coalesce.
Is Landon Robinson on the NFL Radar?
Robinson’s 2024 performance (61 tackles, 4 sacks) and freakish athleticism (450-pound bench, 650-pound squat) have NFL scouts intrigued. As the only nose guard in the nation to play on kickoff teams in 2023, his versatility and strength make him a mid-to-late-round draft prospect, particularly for teams seeking a high-motor interior lineman.
Navy Midshipmen 2025 Outlook
Navy enters 2025 with a potent offense led by Blake Horvath, Eli Heidenreich, Alex Tecza, and Brandon Chatman. It is poised to build on their 10-3 season. Drew Cronic’s system should continue to evolve, potentially making Navy’s run game and passing attack even more dynamic. However, the offensive line’s inexperience and a depleted defense pose challenges.
Brian Newberry’s leadership and a favorable AAC schedule position Navy as a top contender for the conference title, with a ceiling of 10-2 or 11-1. While a CFP berth is unlikely, a New Year’s Six bowl is within reach. The Army-Navy Game remains the emotional pinnacle, and Navy’s momentum suggests they’ll enter the 126th matchup as favorites.
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium will again be a fortress. Players like Landon Robinson and Nathan Kent could elevate their profiles. If the defense gels and the offensive line holds, the Midshipmen could make waves in 2025. They could prove that service academy football is thriving in the modern era.
