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Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on the offensive line; this week, we’re flipping sides of the ball and looking at the defensive line.
Cam Spence, DL, No. 56
Height: 6’3
Weight: 311 pounds
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
High School: St. John’s
How he got to College Park
After verbally committing to Maryland in April 2016, Spence signed his letter of intent on Feb. 1 as a four-star recruit. He was ranked 19th among 2017 defensive line recruits and third among D.C. recruits entering the season. According to the 247Sports Composite, Spence is Maryland’s seventh-best recruit this season and one of eight four-star recruits for the Terps.
Spence spent his first two years of high school playing football at Gilman. He then transferred to IMG Academy in Florida for his junior year before playing at St. John’s College High School in D.C. for his senior season. Another four-star Maryland recruit, quarterback Kasim Hill, played football at Gillman and St. Johns as well.
Before even playing a game, Spence showed in high school the strength and athleticism necessary to become a solid defensive tackle in college. His highlights show someone who is physically ready for a new challenge on the field.
2017 prospectus
Since it’s Spence’s freshman season, it’s hard to expect too much from him early on. With the seniors established as the starters, Spence should ease in to his role at his own pace. Additionally, a crowded depth chart means he will have to earn his playing time before other players earn theirs. Therefore, Spence will most likely have a quiet 2017 season, preparing for a bigger role in the future.
Dream season
Spence learns from seniors like Cavon Walker and Kingsley Opara while playing an important backup role all season. By the end of the year, he establishes himself as a part of the future for the defensive line, putting himself in position for a potential starting role in 2018.
Up next
Two players we simply can’t separate for this series.
Murderlandboy, say_al and Scaletta are still tied for the lead with two guesses apiece.
Terpluvian, ziowa9, jarem, Sabadahut, terponalake and amaymon27 each have one.