Maryland just scored a major win - and it didn’t come from the transfer portal. Cornerback Dontay Joyner, the Terps’ top defensive back this past season, is running it back for his senior year, giving head coach Mike Locksley and the Maryland defense a much-needed boost heading into 2026.
Joyner made it official on Thursday, announcing his return on social media with a simple message: “Another year lock down 🔒.” For a team looking to rebound from a tough finish to the season, this is the kind of news that resonates far beyond the locker room.
Let’s be clear: retaining Joyner is a big deal. The 6-foot, 180-pound corner out of Lakeland, Florida, was a difference-maker in the Terps' secondary after transferring in from Arkansas State last offseason.
He quickly established himself as Maryland’s top cover man, leading the team with eight pass breakups. He also chipped in two interceptions - tied for fourth on the team - and ranked sixth in total tackles.
That kind of production is hard to replace, and now Maryland won’t have to.
Joyner had the option to declare for the NFL Draft, and given his performance, it wouldn’t have been a surprise if he had. But instead of jumping to the next level, he’s betting on another year in College Park - a move that speaks to both his development and the trust he’s built with the coaching staff.
This marks the second key return for Maryland in less than a week. Quarterback Malik Washington, another cornerstone player, announced on Saturday that he’s also coming back. Between Washington on offense and Joyner anchoring the defense, the Terps are starting to shape a solid veteran core heading into next season.
Still, there’s work to be done. Maryland’s secondary is going to look different in 2026.
Starting safety Jalen Huskey - arguably the team’s best overall player - is graduating, and the status of fellow starting corner Jamare Glasker remains uncertain. That puts even more emphasis on Joyner’s return.
He’s not just a playmaker - he’s now the leader of a unit in transition.
Of course, Joyner’s season wasn’t without its low points. In a fourth-quarter collapse against Washington - a loss that triggered Maryland’s eight-game losing streak to close the year - Joyner drew two personal foul penalties during a pivotal touchdown drive.
It was a frustrating moment in a frustrating game, but according to Locksley, Joyner owned it, apologizing to the team afterward. That accountability, combined with his on-field production, makes his return all the more valuable.
For Locksley, this is exactly the kind of offseason win he’s been preaching. Earlier this month, on National Signing Day, he made it clear that Maryland’s focus wasn’t just on incoming high school talent - it was also about holding on to the talent already in the building.
“The next transition for us,” Locksley said, “is the portal and retaining our current roster.”
Mission accomplished - at least in Joyner’s case. And for Maryland, that’s a strong step in the right direction.