Maryland CB has early four

Waldorf (Md.) Westlake has three highly anticipated recruits coming out in 2006.

Cornerback and running back Aaris Reed is one of those top prospects. Although Reed hasn't received a scholarship offer yet, plenty of schools are showing interest. According to Westlake head coach Dom Zaccarelli, schools like Maryland, Penn State, Boston College and Marshall are showing the most interest so far.

Reed has been a standout cornerback for Westlake and Zaccarelli has good things to say.

"He's a real tough and physical kid with good speed and he gets off the mark good," he said. "He's a very athletic kid who's got good quickness and a good change of direction.

"He's a big playmaker for us, especially defensively coming off the edge and his coverage was a nice job for us too."

On the season, Reed ended up with 170 carries for 1,336 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also added 19 tackles, a forced fumble, two interceptions, three sacks, five passes defended and an interception return for a touchdown on defense. Reed went on to be named first team all-conference and was named to the all-Southern Maryland team by the Washington Post.

So what makes Reed stand out from other prospects?

"I've got to say it's the physical nature he plays with. You wouldn't think a 5-foot-10 guy would be so physical, but he plays a physical game and he'll run you over and hit you. He plays pressure coverage and really likes the physical part of the game."

As for what position he'll play in college, it seems a certainty he'll play defensive back.

"I think he's got a better shot at cornerback, but we played him at strong safety last year. He also has great hands and could be a solid wide receiver too."

This spring Reed is slated to go to the Nike Combine at Penn State in April. Zaccarelli wasn't sure if he'll be able to attend the Virginia Tech Nike Camp because there could be a conflict on that date. As for this summer, Reed is still wide open and should make a decision on what camps he'll be attending by May.