Luka Akirtava Archives

Next up in our 2025 Rice Football Season Preview: defensive line. Here’s our breakdown of the Owls’ plans for the group this season.

There’s a new coordinator at the helm of the Rice Football defense and a mix of new and old faces who will be asked to step into significant roles this coming season. Even with the changes, getting to the passer and creating havoc in the run game will be the marching orders for a front that believes it has enough depth to make a difference.

Rice Football Preseason Preview: Check out the rest of the series here.

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** Photo credit: Maria Lysaker **

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One of the finishing touches to the 2025 Rice Football recruiting class is officially on board. Defensive lineman Luca Akirtava has committed to the Owls.

National Signing Day is days and the 2025 Rice Football recruiting class is nearly complete. Before the bulk of the remaining members put pen to paper on Wednesday, though, the Owls have added one more difference maker to their haul. Defensive lineman Luca Akirtava has committed to the Owls.

When head coach Scott Abell arrived on South Main, Akirtava was expected to be available. The Reedy high school product had originally signed with Arkansas State in December before a shakeup in the Red Wolves coaching staff opened the door for Akirtava to explore other options. He seized that chance, reopening his commitment, eventually landing at South Main.

Before he committed, Akirtava piqued the interest of programs across the state, garnering offers from North Texas, Texas State and UTEP as well as out-of-state programs like Arkansas State, UMass, Washington State and others.

The addition of Akirtava gives the Owls a solid base in the defensive trenches. He joins high school signee Rob Rooks as well as transfers Dillan Botts (Mary Hardin-Baylor) and Ejike Adele (Dartmouth).

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Akirtava is a fun watch on film. The 6-foot-3, 260-pound defender can line up at several spots up and down the line, a level of versatility which will suit him well in the Owls’ defensive scheme. Adding pass rushers like this is always a good call.

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