3-Star DE Jerzhan Newton commits to Maryland football

Three-star defensive tackle Jerzhan Newton of Clearwater, Florida, announced his commitment to Maryland football Saturday morning during an Instagram Live event. He selected the Terps over Kansas State, UCF and USF.

The 6’3, 255 pound defensive end provides more depth at a key position of need for Maryland. Mike Locksley and his staff have stocked up the defensive back room in the 2020 class, but help along the defensive line could be the most critical.

Newton is a strong-side defensive end, who could pair opposite to weak-side defensive end Jordan Mitchell. Mitchell committed earlier this year while in College Park for Maryland’s spring game. On the field, Newton is often a superior athlete to those around him, making him a threat every snap. Even with his size, his lateral quickness makes it hard for any quarterback to make a play with his feet if things were to break down. Newton is also great at splitting double teams, taking on backfield blockers and getting to the next level efficiently.

Newton visited Maryland back in mid-June, but left College Park without pledging his commitment. He opted to take things into the dead period and decide right before official visits could begin again. His recruitment will continue to be a battle though, as he has made plans to visit Kansas State in mid-October.

Locksley and his staff, especially linebackers coach Brian Williams, have made great use of connections in the south on the recruiting trail with three pledges from Georgia and Newton becoming the third from Florida. Newton joins key talents Ruben Hyppolite II and DeaJaun McDougle as Maryland commits out of the sunshine state.

With Newton on board, Maryland’s class of 2020 haul now ranks No. 37 in the nation and remains ninth in the Big Ten. With 16 commitments on board, the staff will focus in on keeping those on board connected while also potentially trying to flip top local talent.