Central Catholic DL Angelo Pugliano Commits to MAC Program

Central Catholic 2026 defensive lineman Angelo Pugliano started to field some college interest following his junior season, but his status as a Division I prospect really took off since the start of May with 10 offers.

However, there was one school that started to stand out and once the program offer, he pounced on the opportunity.

Pugliano announced Monday afternoon that he is verbally pledged to Western Michigan in the Mid-American Conference.

“I chose to commit to WMU after the initial offer because I felt my style of play and physical attributes fit well with the defensive long term goals,” Pugliano told Pittsburgh Sports Now.

#AGTG
Committed! #EAT@WMU_Football @PCC_FOOTBALL @CoachLehmeier @DL_Coach_Mazur @CoachJayBell @CoachLT39 @CoachPayneWMU @Coach_OLeary @wpialsportsnews @PghSportsNow @theking1 @BrianDohn247 @RivalsFriedman @DAWGHZERECRUITS pic.twitter.com/FGhZpTtb7s

— Angelo Pugliano (@AngeloDpugliano) June 23, 2025

Pugliano picks the Broncos over offers from Miami (OH), Eastern Michigan, Cornell, Stony Brook, Lehigh, Robert Morris, Duquesne, Richmond, Albany, Sacramento State and Georgetown.

Western Michigan started showing interest in April. A recent unofficial visit impressed Pugliano and then he eventually secured the offer he was looking for.

“I visited last week on an unofficial visit. What stood out was their beautiful campus. I also loved the energy and atmosphere,” Pugliano said.

The Western Michigan defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary and defensive line coach Seth Payne led the recruitment for Pugliano.

“I have been in discussions with Coach Payne and Coach O’Leary. Both have coached at a high level with success. Coach Payne at Vanderbilt and Coach O’Leary at Notre Dame, respectfully. Head Coach Lance Taylor also had a presence that was unmatched to date. This is where I want to be,” he said.

Western Michigan views Pugliano as an interior defensive lineman. The 6-2, 280-pounder recorded 36 total tackles (21 solo), along with 10 sacks, five tackles for loss and one forced fumble as a junior.

“My speed, strength and athleticism will allow them to put me anywhere on that front that they choose,” Pugliano said. “I am team player and consider my self extremely versatile.”

Check out the Hudl highlights of Angelo Pugliano here.