It’s officially decision week for Pallotti (MD) three-star offensive tackle Ryan Howerton, who set to announce his commitment on Saturday. Maryland, West Virginia and Pitt are battling for the 6-foot-4 lineman after hosting him for official visits in June, while Virginia Tech and Howard round out Howerton’s top group.
Maryland jumped into the mix with an offer last fall, but it was the spring that helped make themselves a formidable landing spot after gradually turning up the heat through the eval period into the camp circuit. Offensive line coach Brian Braswell’s track record resonates with the athletic tackle, while Maryland also boasts familiarity with Daniel Wingate and Alex Moore, both Pallotti alums, already in College Park. After the Terps emerged as a serious landing spot following his official visit, Pitt was the last hurdle before making a decision.
Now, the buzz is Howerton is bouncing between Maryland and West Virginia before making the call this week. “I’ve tried to hold off on all those calls until next week but I’m almost there,” Howerton told IBG.
Maryland assistants Kevin Sumlin and Brian Braswell have led the charge while head coach Mike Locksley made a noticeable impression during his official visit the weekend of June 16. “They’ve got a plan. Coach [Mike] Locksley is for the advancement of young men, young athletes and I feel like I can get behind that.”
The long-standing pursuit and development plan from the Mountaineers has kept them heavily in the conversation. “I’ve been number one on their list forever now. They’ve shown me the most love out of anybody,” Howerton added. “Coach Moore came to my schools a bunch of times telling me he loves my film. The last three years, they’ve had a freshman All-American develop. He’s saying if you come here, you can play early and see what we do when guys get on the field.”
Howerton does not have a set time for Saturday’s commitment yet.
Howerton is rated a three-star prospect and an 87 overall by On3, sitting as the 22nd-best player in Maryland.
Related Links
Justin Okoronkwo backs off Maryland football commitment
Five freshmen who could emerge in 2023
Pair of Terps among top ten draft prospects at position in Phil Steele’s preview
VIP: Maryland basketball staff checking out top 2024, 2025 targets (+)
Where Maryland football recruiting stands: defensive edition (+)