Maryland might not be the first school that comes to mind when you think of NFL defensive back factories-but maybe it should be. Over the past several years, the Terrapins have quietly built a steady pipeline to the pros, and Jalen Huskey is making a strong case to be the next name added to that growing list.
Huskey just wrapped up an impressive week of practices at the Shrine Bowl, one of the premier showcases for NFL Draft hopefuls. And while he may have flown under the radar nationally for much of his college career, that’s quickly changing. Coaches, scouts, and evaluators took notice of his performance in Frisco, and he earned a spot on the Shrine Bowl West Team’s All-Practice squad-a nod that speaks volumes about how he stacked up against other top-tier prospects.
If Huskey hears his name called on draft weekend, he’ll mark the fifth consecutive year a Maryland defensive back has been selected. That would place him alongside recent Terps standouts like Dante Trader, Tarheeb Still, Jakorian Bennett, Deonte Banks, and Nick Cross-players who have made their mark in the NFL after cutting their teeth in College Park.
This past season, Huskey was a cornerstone of Maryland’s secondary. He started 11 games, helped lead a defense that posted its highest interception total since 2010, and was recognized as a Second Team All-Big Ten selection by both the media and coaches.
His stat line backs up the accolades: four interceptions (tied for the team lead), 72 tackles (second-most on the team), and a presence that consistently showed up in big moments. For a safety, that combination of ball production and physicality is exactly what NFL teams are looking for.
But Huskey’s story goes a bit deeper. He transferred to Maryland from Bowling Green ahead of the 2024 season, where he had already earned First Team All-MAC honors as a cornerback.
That versatility-cornerback turned safety-is part of what makes him such an intriguing prospect. He’s only played safety for two seasons, but he’s already shown the instincts, range, and football IQ of a natural at the position.
At 6-foot-1 and 199 pounds, Huskey brings a strong frame and a physical style of play. He reads and reacts quickly, takes smart angles, and has the kind of sideline-to-sideline range that defensive coordinators covet. Whether it’s breaking up a pass over the middle or crashing down on a short throw, he plays with confidence and urgency.
Those traits were on full display during Shrine Bowl practices. Multiple analysts highlighted his ability to match up with receivers in space and make plays on the ball.
Josh Carney noted Huskey’s success covering Iowa’s Kaden Wejten, including a sharp pass breakup on an out route. John Schmeelke pointed out his quick reaction time and closing speed on short throws.
And Tony Pauline went as far as to call Huskey “the star of the secondary,” praising his patience, communication, and next-level ball skills-highlighted by a touchdown-saving pass breakup.
Huskey’s leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed, either. He was named Maryland’s Defensive Player of the Year and voted a permanent team captain by his peers-no small feat for a transfer in his first (and only) season with the program. That speaks not just to his production, but to the respect he earned in the locker room.
As the NFL Draft process continues, Huskey’s stock is trending up. He’s already shown he can hang with top competition, and with his size, versatility, and playmaking instincts, he’s got the tools to carve out a role at the next level. Maryland has built a reputation for developing defensive backs who can contribute on Sundays-and Jalen Huskey looks ready to keep that tradition alive.