Deaf Athlete Played Key Role for NDSU Bison
Brett Tastad has relied on cochlear implants to navigate football signals as an offensive guard.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Football
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North Dakota State University offensive guard Brett Tastad, who is 100% deaf, uses cochlear implants to help him identify quarterback signals. The 6-foot-5 student-athlete relies on specific vocal tones to perform on the field.
Why it matters
Tastad overcomes significant sensory challenges to compete at the collegiate level. His ability to adapt to game conditions demonstrates a unique approach to managing communication on the offensive line.
Brett Tastad stands 6-foot-5, providing a significant physical presence on the offensive line. He began using his first cochlear implant at age 4 and was able to hear with the devices by age 5.
The players
Brett Tastad
He is a 6-foot-5 offensive guard for the North Dakota State University football team.
Nate Tastad
He is a current member of the NDSU Bison football team and the brother of Brett Tastad.
North Dakota State University
This is a public research university located in Fargo, North Dakota, known for its successful football program.
The details
Tastad plays alongside his brother, Nate Tastad, continuing a family tradition as their father also played for the NDSU Bison. The brothers utilize a combination of visual awareness and auditory cues processed through his implants to maintain coordination during games.
Timeline
Brett Tastad received his first cochlear implant at age 4.
By age 5, Tastad could hear out of both ears using his implants.
The Big Picture
Brett Tastad's participation aligns with the broader push for inclusivity under the NCAA Division I football eligibility standards. His role on the team marks a departure from traditional perceptions of auditory limitations in high-intensity contact sports.
Tastad's position on the line impacts the offensive blocking rotation and the team's signal-calling efficiency during high-noise environments. His ability to discern specific vocal tones dictates how the quarterback manages the snap count.
The takeaway
Tastad demonstrates that sensory challenges do not preclude high-level performance in collegiate athletics. Developing consistent communication methods and relying on teammates like his brother are essential strategies for his ongoing success.
What happens next
The NDSU Bison are scheduled to travel to Las Vegas to compete against the UNLV Rebels.
Further reading
Learn more about the local team in the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kfyrtv.
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