Javon Leake is joining a crowded Maryland backfield, but he shouldn’t be overlooked

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on quarterbacks; this week, we’re looking at all of Maryland’s running backs.

Javon Leake, RB, No. 1

Height: 6’1”
Weight: 208 lbs.
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Greensboro, N.C.
High school: Page High School

How he got to College Park

Leake committed to Maryland as the No. 1 running back prospect in North Carolina, choosing the Terps over hometown programs like the UNC, NC State and South Carolina.

Leake garnered national recruiting interest after an eye-opening junior campaign, when he rushed for more than 2,000 yards and tallied 30 touchdowns. Despite missing two games in his senior year, Leake still rushed for 1,679 yards behind an efficient 216 carries.

Career highlight

Leake torched an entire team’s defense for a 95-yard touchdown run.

2017 Prospectus

Leake comes in with all the tools to make it at the collegiate level. He can make defenders miss once he gets past the line of scrimmage, has the size to bulldoze his way through tackles, and combines natural speed with a 6-foot-plus frame. But Maryland’s depth at the position might make it hard to see consistent reps throughout the season. Still, Leake’s raw athleticism gives him the flexibility to be productive for Maryland in a number of ways, both down the line and even immediately.

Dream Season

Leake shines in the opportunities he gets both in the backfield and on special teams in the early season, showcasing he can be a potential workhorse for Maryland down the line. With Will Likely and Teldrick Morgan both gone, his big-play ability could even see earn him reps as a punt and kick returner as a freshman.

Up Next

This back committed to Maryland on the same day as Leake.

phisch13 leads with two this week.
HughGR, Murderlandboy, Turtle Shell and say_al have one.