Bryce Brand should give Maryland football’s defense an immediate boost

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on the defensive line; this week, we’re taking a look at the linebackers.

Bryce Brand, LB, No. 27

Height: 6’3
Weight: 230 lbs.
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
High school: Clayton Valley Charter

How he got to College Park

The three-star recruit committed to Maryland last December after decommitting from Arizona. Brand took an official visit to Maryland on Dec. 2, two weeks before decommitting and a month before deciding to play for the Terps. His brother, Ryan, will also play for Maryland as a walk-on quarterback in the fall.

Brand spent his high school years playing football at either IMG Academy in Florida or Clayton Valley Charter in California, where he recorded 90 tackles in his senior season, which included 10 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

2017 prospectus

While only a three-star recruit, Brand’s early enrollment to Maryland was a significant commitment for DJ Durkin. He could compete for snaps at linebacker, but he mostly projects to play at the BUCK with an emphasis on rushing the passer. Brand has a chance to earn playing time early on if he impresses the coaching staff. In order to do so, he will have to outplay some more experienced linebackers higher on the depth chart.

Dream season

Brand gains the trust of the coaches, securing a spot in the defensive rotation for passing down situations. His continued improvement over the season allows him increased playing time, breaking out late in the season and setting himself up nicely for a crucial role on the defense in 2018.

Up next

This sophomore has direct family ties to the NFL.

say_al joins Denton5, Scaletta, jatk13 and Sabadahut on the board this week.