The Fort Lewis College football team has enhanced its coaching staff for the 2026 season with the appointments of Adam Wattenbarger as assistant coach for running backs and tight ends, Todd Patridge as a remote analyst, and former player Thomas Bearden as a student volunteer assistant coach for the offensive line. Wattenbarger brings extensive experience from previous coaching positions, including a successful tenure at Methodist University. Patridge, who previously coached the defensive line at the University of St. Francis, will contribute analytical insights, while Bearden transitions from player to coach, leveraging his firsthand knowledge to support the team.

By the Numbers
  • Wattenbarger helped achieve three USA South All-Conference selections at Methodist University.
  • Bearden contributed to an offensive team average of +300 yards per game (302.7) in 2025, a milestone not reached since 2017.
State of Play
  • Fort Lewis College opens its 2026 season on August 29 against William Jewell College.
  • The game will be streamed live as part of a pay-per-view broadcast on the Great Lakes Valley Conference Network.
What's Next

As the season unfolds, the new coaching staff will aim to leverage their collective experience to improve team performance and tactics, particularly focusing on offensive and defensive strategies.

Bottom Line

The additions of Wattenbarger, Patridge, and Bearden signal Fort Lewis College's commitment to strengthening its football program through experienced leadership and mentorship, setting a positive course for the upcoming season.