Maryland football recruiting operates within the NCAA framework, aiming to build competitive rosters by identifying, evaluating, and securing commitments from high school prospects. Here’s a breakdown:
Core Recruiting Mechanics
- Scholarship Limits: NCAA rules permit FBS teams like Maryland to offer a maximum of 85 total scholarships.
- Annual Class Size: Coaches can sign up to 25 new scholarship players per year (National Signing Day limit).
- Coaching Roles: The Head Coach sets strategy, the Defensive and Offensive Coordinators evaluate scheme fits, and position coaches focus on individual players. Support staff handles logistics.
The Recruiting Cycle
Recruiting is a year-round, multi-phase process:
- Evaluation & Identification: Coaching staff scouts high school talent via film, camps, and high school visits. Prospects receive star ratings from external services.
- Offer & Communication: Maryland extends verbal scholarship offers. Coaches build relationships through calls, texts, campus visits, and unofficial/official visits. The NCAA regulates contact periods.
- Verbal Commitment: A prospect announces their intent to sign with Maryland. This is non-binding until the NLI is signed.
- National Signing Periods:
- Early Signing Period (Dec): Most top recruits sign binding National Letters of Intent (NLIs).
- Traditional Signing Day (Feb): Remaining recruits sign NLIs.
- Qualification & Enrollment: Prospects must meet NCAA academic eligibility standards and be admitted to the university to join the team.
Key Factors for Maryland
- The DMV Pipeline: Prioritizing talent-rich local areas (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) is a strategic cornerstone for the Terrapins.
- Player Development: Showcasing success in developing NFL talent attracts recruits.
- Playing Time Opportunity: Depth charts and roster needs significantly influence recruit decisions.
- Name, Image, Likeness (NIL): Potential NIL opportunities are part of the modern recruiting landscape.
Fan Takeaways
- Verbals Matter: Tracking commitments offers insight into the future roster.
- Signing Day is Binding: NLIs formalize the scholarship commitment.
- Trust the Process: Success relies on consistent evaluation, relationship-building, and institutional stability.
