TE JT Taggart locks in two official visits, talks timeline, Maryland's pitch

Calvert Hall (MD) three-star tight end JT Taggart is eager to make an impact on the defensive side of the ball heading into his senior season, but the 6-foot-6, 210-pound athlete has made a name for himself as a tight end where he’s continued to draw Power Four interest. “I want to specialize in blocking and I’m playing defense this year too so I want to show that I’m versatile,” Taggart told IBG. Eastern Kentucky was the first school to offer back during Taggart’s freshman year while Boston College, West Virginia, Virginia Tech and Maryland have jumped in pursuit with more monitoring him heading into the summer. “I’ve been talking to a few more coaches. It hasn’t extended to the offer part yet but just building the relationship.” Maryland has prioritized Taggart since January as assistants Brian Braswell and Kevin Sumlin team up with Sumlin driving the bulk of recruiting efforts through the spring. “It’s a great relationship. He tells me if I go there, I’ll change as an athlete. I can fit into any scheme. I’m an athlete so I can adapt to the change. I can catch and I can block so I just need to be able to show that.” Taggart has two official visits locked in with Maryland up first the weekend of June 7 as the in-state three-star target gives the Terps a long look. Next up will be a return visit to Colorado for an official the weekend of June 21 with the Buffs a top contender. “I’ve been talking to Kelly. Hopefully nothing has changed. Just want to see a good family, good bond.” West Virginia also remains in the mix for an official visit. With others monitoring Taggart heading into the summer, having his dad – Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart – involved in his recruitment has helped navigate his next steps. “He’s just let me trying to let me be a kid. He gives me some tips every now and then but he lets me take control.” Still, Taggart isn't planning to make an imminent decision. “I’m planning to take it into senior year.” JT Taggart is rated a three-star and an 87 overall by On3, checking in as the 25th-best prospect in Maryland. Related Links ESPN, On3 evaluate where Maryland football sits post-spring ballMaryland-Northwestern moved to Friday night on FOXFreshmen duo Derik Queen, Malachi Palmer arrive at MarylandOLB Sidney Stewart "falling in love" with Maryland ahead of OVsHamond twins ready for official visit to Maryland in June