In-state commit returning to campus ahead of official visit

Bel Air (MD) three-star safety Julien Horton has his official visit to Maryland already set for the weekend of June 13, but the 6-foot, 175-pound verbal commit will return to campus this week for an unofficial visit. "I think I'm coming up to campus or Thursday just to meet with the strength and conditioning coach just to get some more information on stuff on what I can be doing to get my body ready, stuff like that. This will be the first time for me so I'm looking forward to it," Horton told IBG. Horton committed to Maryland back in late March with cornerbacks coach Aazaar Abdul-Rahim a driving force in his recruitment, and the in-state commit has noticed the consistency in the contact with his lead recruiter despite a decision already made. "Coach Rahim, the one who is really big in my recruitment, still talks to me two to three times per week and we call each other so he's been a big part of it." While Horton locked in with Maryland early in the process, that hasn't deterred others from flipping him with North Carolina among the regional schools working to change his mind. The Tar Heels became the latest offer after showing interest through his junior year. "Before I committed we were in contact, they said they liked my film. They came to my school like a month ago and offered me," he added. Though others have sent Horton official visit dates, Horton is only focused on getting to College Park. "A lot of schools are trying to flip me but Maryland is home." With his decision solidified heading into his senior year, Horton will get a chance to see familiar faces during his visit with the Hamond twins from Calvert Hall scheduled to visit during the same weekend. "Those are my guys," he added. "I'm definitely trying to keep some of my guys with me. I feel like we have a lot of talent in the state and we're trying to keep the top guys home in the program." Horton previews what he's looking to dive into during his 48-hour visit. "Just really day in the life of a football player because honestly that's what I'll be doing for the next four years. Just excited to see more of the program, see what it's all about." Julien Horton is rated a three-star and an 87 overall by On3, sitting as the 30th-best prospect in Maryland. Related Links Update on portal specialistAnonymous Big Ten coaches sound off on 2024 Maryland footballVIP: OV notes • upcoming high school visits • Maryland portal targetsWhich targets Maryland football has the best chance with heading into OVsEvaluating Maryland baseball’s way-too-early 2025 roster