Derrick Hayward should get playing time as Maryland football’s blocking TE in 2016

Maryland football starts its season in 55 days. Until then, we’re profiling each and every player on the roster.

Derrick Hayward, tight end

Height: 6’5

Weight: 240 pounds

Year: Junior

High school: Wicomico High School (Md.)

Jersey No.: 48

How he got to College Park

Originally recruited as a linebacker, Hayward was the No. 71 OLB in the class of 2013 and the No. 21 player in Maryland, per the 247Sports Composite. He committed to the Terps in May 2012. He played some tight end in high school, and switched to the position full-time when he got to Maryland.

Hayward’s appeared in 24 games in his two years since redshirting, making four starts. He made two catches each season for a total of 35 yards receiving.

Career highlight

Starting in the Foster Farms Bowl against Stanford.

2016 prospectus

Hayward is fairly entrenched as a backup behind Avery Edwards at tight end. He’ll get some snaps, maybe even some starts, but his role will probably as a blocking tight end, not really as a receiver.

What a dream season would look like

He expands his role to include more pass-catching duties, and he contributes to a powerful offensive line.

Next in the series

Our next subject is the older of the team’s set of non-twin brothers.

Standings

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