Maryland Checking in on JuCo Target, Planning Official Visit
- Ahmed Ghafir
- Oct 27, 2022
- 2 min read
After freshman Gavin Gibson moved from safety to cornerback ahead of the 2022 season, Maryland’s need for another safety this cycle became a focal point to close out the cycle. The staff had initially kept close tabs on high school prospects before scouring the JuCo ranks once the season kicked off and with more tape that comes out, Coffeyville safety Bishop Fitzgerald becomes an even more attractive target for Maryland.
Safeties coach Wes Neighbors has been in close contact through the fall with the two sides communicating nearly daily and Fitzgerald knows he has a chance to make an impact in College Park. “We haven’t talked about the system yet but he’s telling me about the fact that he needs someone that can come in and make an immediate impact and he says he feels like I can be that guy,” he told Inside the Black and Gold. Though he hasn’t been able to visit this season, Fitzgerald is already familiar with Maryland given his upbringing in northern Virginia, but he’s tuned into the Terps through conference play.
“We had a bye week two weeks ago and the other week, we had a game at 1 so I was able to catch the Northwestern game and the Indiana game. I liked it, defense was flying around and the guys came away with two wins, so that’s the most important thing.” It also bodes well for Maryland that they offered his teammate, offensive lineman Keyshawn Blackstock, as both are expected to officially visit Maryland. Before then, Maryland will be in attendance for Coffeyville’s game this weekend.
“He was right next to me. That’s my guy. I think one of the December weeks, either the 2nd or the 9th, is when I’ll take my OV there.” Utah State and Oklahoma State are two more that have shown strong interest, but another Big Ten school could host him for an official before Maryland.
“I think I’m going to take one to Indiana and those are the only two I’m for sure taking right now.”
Fitzgerald does not have a timeframe for a decision but will commit ahead of the early signing period. He is eligible to graduate in December and after enrolling at the school of his choice in January, has three years to play three.
He is not yet rated by On3.Related Links Maryland football’s 2023 schedule is released Four-star forward raves about campus, fit during visit (+) To-do list for Maryland football’s bye week In-state prospect set to return to Maryland (+) Locksley updates status of QB Taulia Tagovailoa heading into bye week QB Khristian Martin sees fit, Maryland’s offense during visit (+) Appealing bowl projections for Maryland with postseason secured Four-star forward Derik Queen sees fit during official visit (+)
