Maryland football recruiting: 3-star cornerback Kareem Ali commits to the Terps

Maryland has locked down another key position of need in the 2015 class, securing perhaps their top target at cornerback. Three-star Timber Creek (N.J.) corner Kareem Ali committed to the Terps Thursday, choosing Maryland in a ceremony at his high school over fellow finalists Louisville and Pittsburgh, as well as offers from Florida, Michigan State and Penn State.

Ali was easily one of Maryland's top five targets in the 2015 class, and being able to lock up his commitment early will allow them to focus on other high-value players like Kai Locksley, Isaiah Prince and Quarvez Boulware. Specifically, it helps mitigate the loss of Jalen Tabor in the class of 2014, giving Maryland a legitimate blue-chip corner (he's considered a four-star by Rivals) who should continue to rise up the rankings as he continues to impress. The Terps also stand in good position with top corners Ashton White and Darnell Savage -- two prospects that would give Maryland one of the top secondary classes in the conference.

The announcement continues the Terps' recent run of success in the recruiting game, fresh off three commitments in a whirlwind camp weekend. Ali's lead recruiters were Brian Stewart and Keith Dudzinski.

The 247sports composite ranks Ali as the 44th-best cornerback and the 12^th-best player from the state of New Jersey. Listed at 5'11" and 175 pounds, he's a strong cover corner who could play from day one in College Park.

Here's his highlight tape: