College Park is quietly building something dangerous on defense - and it starts on the edge.
Maryland just got a major boost heading into 2026, as standout freshman defensive ends Zahir Mathis and Sidney Stewart announced they’re coming back for another season. That’s not just good news - that’s program-shifting news. Add in the arrival of top-five recruit Zion Elee, and suddenly, the Terps might be fielding one of the most intimidating pass-rushing trios in the country.
There had been some buzz that Elee’s commitment might shake things up in the room, maybe even push someone toward the portal. But with Mathis and Stewart both confirming their return, it’s clear this group is locked in and ready to roll.
And make no mistake - Mathis and Stewart weren’t just good as freshmen; they were dominant. Stewart posted seven sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 40 pressures, while Mathis added six sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 31 pressures.
Those are grown-man numbers, especially for first-year players. And they did it all while battling through injuries down the stretch - a testament to their toughness and motor.
Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed, either. Both earned freshman All-American honors, with nods from On3 and 247Sports, cementing their status as two of the top young defensive players in the nation.
Now, with Elee entering the fold, the question becomes: how do you get all three on the field?
Head coach Michael Locksley has already said he believes there’s a path to playing time for all of them. That could mean Stewart sliding into an off-ball linebacker role on occasion, or Mathis shifting inside to a 5- or even 3-technique.
Physically, both have the versatility to handle those responsibilities. Or defensive coordinator Ted Monachino may choose to rotate heavily, keeping legs fresh and pressure relentless.
No matter how they line it up, this much is clear: opposing quarterbacks are going to have their hands full. Maryland’s edge group isn’t just talented - it’s deep, it’s hungry, and it’s built to cause chaos.
If the Terps can keep this unit healthy, they’ve got the kind of front that can change games - and maybe even seasons.