Maryland football is gearing up for spring practice, and head coach Mike Locksley is looking to reshape the team for a promising 2026 season after back-to-back four-win campaigns. With the season on the horizon, the focus is on whether the Terps can return to bowl eligibility.
Recently, Maryland received a ‘D+’ transfer portal grade, tying with Michigan State for the lowest in the Big Ten. Despite this, Locksley remains committed to his strategy of prioritizing high school recruits over transfers, bringing in 17 new recruits compared to 11 transfers. The team lost 10 starters from last year's squad, including three through the portal, leaving significant gaps on the offensive line, at receiver, and in the defensive backfield.
Locksley is banking on young talent to step up quickly. Notably, Na’eem Abdul-Rahim Gladding and Chris Durr are poised to fill crucial roles in the wide receiver lineup, while Derrick LeBlanc and Lavon Johnson bring depth to the defensive line.
In the secondary, Amari Jackson is expected to start alongside Jamare Glasker and Dontay Joyner. On offense, Preston Howard and Dorian Fleming return as key receiving threats.
The emphasis this offseason has been on retaining the promising freshmen class. Only one player from the 2025 class, Dante Recker, has left the program. Key players like Malik Washington, Sidney Stewart, and Zahir Mathis decided to stay, with Stewart finalizing his decision most recently.
As Maryland heads into the new season, the success of the 2026 campaign will largely depend on the development of these young players transitioning into their sophomore year. The team’s identity and potential hinge on their growth and ability to fill the voids left by departing players.