Maryland has spent ample time scouting the junior college ranks for available targets in the trenches and after a pair of visits, the staff is in the mix for another. Lackawanna (PA) offensive tackle Elijah Philippe first visited the weekend of the Michigan State game before reaching out to the coaching staff again last week.
“I texted them because I had an open weekend and wanted to come back down for another game. I like the school, the facilities so I wanted to check it out again,” Philippe told Inside the Black and Gold. After a short time on campus then taking in the game, Philippe then got a chance to connect with head coach Mike Locksley as the Terps joined a growing sheet. Though the 6-foot-7, 295-pound tackle holds offers from Auburn, Washington State, USF and Louisville among others, the Terps are an immediate contender for the December grad.
“They needed someone that could come in and potentially compete for a spot. Their right tackle and their left tackle could go to the NFL so I can come in there and be a perfect replacement.” Offensive line coach Brian Braswell is leading the recruitment thus far and has been able to create a tight-knit relationship in close time with the Philadelphia native. “I was on FaceTime with him yesterday. He’s a really straight forward coach. I like a coach that’ll tell me exactly what he wants and doesn’t sugarcoat it.”
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Maryland is also taking a long look at Philippe’s teammate and fellow offensive tackle Ian Wright, but as for Philippe, he’s working with Maryland to set up an extended visit during the offseason.
“We talked about an official visit for December 9 to 11,” Philippe added. “I have an official visit to Florida State the weekend after Maryland.” Washington State could also host Philippe for an official visit but it’s Auburn who is doing the best job thus far. “Auburn has been doing a good job. That’s the only school that’s constantly reaching out to me.”
Philippe doesn’t have a clear-cut leader with his recruitment heating up but does plan on signing during the early signing period then enrolling at the school of his choice in January. He has four years to play three.