JUCO center Aric Harris commits to Maryland football

Maryland football solidified its front Wednesday as Hutchinson Community College offensive lineman Aric Harris announced his commitment to the program.

While in junior college, Harris started at tackle but moved inside to play center during the 2021 spring season. He was originally a Class of 2019 product of Escambia High School in Pensacola, Florida.

The commitment of Harris marks the second addition in the 2021 recruiting class from Hutchinson, with former Arundel High School product linebacker Gereme Spraggins signing during the early period.

Maryland has also seen a large influx of junior college prospects not only joining the program but making immediate impacts. Independence Community College products defensive lineman Mosiah Nasili-Kite, defensive lineman Ami Finau and offensive guard Johari Branch were just some of the players who made key contributions in 2020 after arriving in College Park.

At 6-foot-4, 294 pounds, Harris provides a great frame upfront at the center position and could slide right into the lineup this fall. Even with his size, Harris displays excellent speed and power when pulling, which he has done at both tackle and center.

Head coach Mike Locksley and offensive line coach Brian Braswell have been working to solidify the Terps’ starting five upfront as the loss of offensive lineman Marcus Minor to Pittsburgh via the transfer portal put the unit one key body short this offseason.

The center position has been the main area of concern upfront with multiple players trying the position out this spring, but there has not been a solidified starter. Harris figures to have a shot at stepping in during fall camp and earning that spot.

Maryland football signed 22 players as part of its 2021 class, which ranked No. 18 in the nation and No. 4 in the Big Ten.