Late in the recruiting cycle, new names can pop up, only to disappear just as quickly. Such was the case with three-star Virginia Beach cornerback T.J. Griffin, who emerged as a potential secondary target recently before making the expected move and signing with Virginia Wednesday.
Griffin originally committed to Wisconsin in November, re-opening his commitment in January after the Badgers' coaching staff changes. In particular, lead recruiter Chris Beatty was hired by Virginia, bringing the Cavaliers into the picture as the presumed favorites. They managed to close out the deal, bringing Griffin into the fold with Beatty over opportunities with the Terps, Badgers and Oregon.
After the loss of 3-star Texas safety Jameel Cook to Indiana, Maryland was in the market for a defensive back. They picked up former 4-star recruit D'Andre Payne from Tennessee and 3-star cornerback Darnell Savage from Delaware, but another defensive back would have helped fill out the class.