After playing in just two games in 2020, former Maryland cornerback Tahj Capehart announced his intention to enter the transfer portal back in late December as the former four-star prospect looked elsewhere to continue his playing career. On Sunday, Capehart announced his playing days are over after accepting a position as a recruiting coordinator at San Diego State University.
“Dear Football, I’m at a loss for words. I have been battling with this decision for the last three months. This sport taught me a lot of life lessons over the 16 years that I’ve been playing. It has made me the person I am today and without this game honestly, I don’t know where I would be. Through the joy and the pain, I don’t regret one moment of it. From winning a state championship and receiving my first offer to tearing my hamstring and ACL, I’ve seen the highest of highs and lowest of lows, but the game is always where my emotions met in the middle. The relationships, bonds, and memories that I have built through the sport that will never be forgotten. Strangers, that I now call my brothers, bonds that will last a lifetime. And to my brother Jordan McNair, Keep watching over me! You will never be forgotten #LL79 🙏🏾 To the coaches…. That gave me the opportunity and platform to showcase my talent and pushed me to be the best version of myself on and off the field. I want to say THANK YOU! To the people that supported me throughout all these years. I want to say THANK YOU! To my parents who sacrificed everything for me to get where I am now. I want to say THANK YOU! To this game we call FOOTBALL, I want to say THANK YOU,” Capehart wrote on Instagram. ”As I continue the journey of life I will be a recruiting coordinator for San Diego State University to give kids just like me an opportunity and platform to showcase their talent. 1️⃣4️⃣ OUT ✌🏾❤️”
Capehart signed with Maryland over Virginia Tech to close out the 2017 recruiting cycle as then-wide receivers coach Chris Beatty paved the way for his pledge. The Terps hosted Capehart during the final official visit weekend ahead of the February signing period, leading to a 24-hour battle between the Terps and Hokies coming out of the official visit.
Capehart, formerly signed as a wide receiver, appeared in seven games as a true freshman before missing the 2018 season due to a torn ACL. Capehart returned in 2019 and appeared in all but one of Maryland’s 12 games as he transitioned into a nickel corner for the Terps’ defense. Capehart played in just two games last fall.