2010 DB Till makes a pledge

The 2009 recruiting season doesn't wrap up for another week, but already Maryland is working for 2010. The Terrapins pulled in their first pledge earlier today from a local defensive back.

"I committed earlier today," Upper Marlboro (Md.) Wise junior safety Titus Till said. "I committed to Coach Friedgen. All the coaches were very surprised and excited about it.

"Well basically, after I committed Coach Friedgen explained to me that this is a commitment I must keep. He went on to say that even if the Redskins offer me a seven million dollar contract I have to tell them that I am going to the University of Maryland. After I shook his hand, his wife gave me a big hug and told me welcome to the family, son."

What was it about the program that Till liked?

"I like the whole family atmosphere around there," he said. "I love the facilities and the coaching staff. All of that together makes me want to be part of Maryland."

Location was also a key factor in the choice.

"It was a big part of my decision because my parents will be able to drive not even 30 minutes down the road to see most of my games," he said. "Also, all of the people I know around here will definitely come out to support me."

As for his position and playing time, Till added further thoughts.

"They haven't talked a whole lot about playing time, only because it is so early," he said. "They want me to come and sit in during one of their spring practices and get that head start on the competition. I am being recruited as a safety and that is what I want to play in college."

Finally, he wrapped up by discussing being the first pledge for the Terrapins in the 2010 class.

"I believe that this is just the start to a great recruiting class," he stated. "Now that I have committed, I want all my fellow Marylanders to stay home with me and build the program up even more."

Till held one other offer from Army, but had a lot of other interest.

"Those were the only two so far," he said. "That was another reason I chose Maryland because they had faith in my abilities from the start and now I have the faith that they are the best choice for me."