Madison County (FL) cornerback Jonathan Akins has committed to Maryland, becoming the second commitment within four days for head coach Mike Locksley and the Terps.
The 5-foot-11, 165-pound cornerback officially visited over the weekend and becomes the first defensive back in Maryland’s 2023 recruiting class. Akins gave his verbal commitment at the end of his official visit and breaks down what led to his decision.
“Everything. I love coach [Mike] Locksley,” Akins told Inside the Black and Gold. “Coach Locksley and all the coaches, in the interviews and everything, they didn’t sugarcoat anything and it was like that from the get go.” Veteran cornerback Tarheeb Still hosted the Florida native on the visit while Akins learned more about the program. “I learned a lot. I learned the owner of Under Armour went there, I learned that coach Locksley used to be the offensive coordinator at Alabama.”
With offers from USF, Rutgers and Troy, the Madison native took an official visit to Rutgers last weekend but nearing the end of his Maryland visit, Akins explains the moment he knew he wanted to join the Terps’ 2023 class. “When we went into his room, we talked about everything and I saw the highlight film. I saw how coach Locksley explained the standard for what he does, it was a no-brainer for me.”
Cornerbacks coach Henry Baker and defensive coordinator Brian Williams led his recruitment as Akins recaps the pitch from Baker. “He’s the same as coach Locksley. He told me I can be the future of this defensive back core. I’m pretty good and we’re going to put you in a spot to succeed.” Williams regional ties also aided the Terps’ efforts. “He’s real cool and relatable,” Akins added.
Akins joins St. Frances wide receiver Ryan Manning, quarterback Robert ‘Champ’ Long, wide receiver Nasir Addison and interior lineman Tamarus Walker in Maryland’s 2023 class.
As a junior, Akins finished with 33 total tackles, ten pass breakups and three interceptions in 14 games.
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