Monroe returns from MD Junior Day

Plainfield (N.J.) offensive tackle Eugene Monroe visited the University of Maryland this past weekend and took part in their Junior Day activities. Monroe, regarded as one of the top offensive lineman in the country, enjoyed the visit. Did Monroe leave College Park with a leader?

"I had real good time at Maryland. I enjoyed meeting with their coaches and players. I had a great time at their basketball game against Wake Forest even though they lost. They have some crazy fans. This visit puts Maryland in the lead for now," said the 6-foot-7, 320-pound lineman who runs the 40-yard dash in 5.25 seconds.

Is Monroe close to a decision?

"No way. I am going to take my time. I am not going to decide until Signing Day."

What schools is Monroe most interested in?

"The schools I would list as my favorites are Maryland, Virginia, Miami, and Michigan State. This could all change next week, but those are the schools that are recruiting me the hardest and I have great relationships with each of them."

Other than being one of the most sought after players in the 2005 class, Monroe is active in another sport as well.

"I am trying out for the U.S. National Junior Handball Team. I got into because the trainer at my school said I should give it a chance. I love it. It helps me on the football field as well. It has really helped my conditioning, footwork, and my hand-eye coordination."

Monroe has 19 scholarship offers currently. He recently received an offer from Stanford to go along with offers from Boston College, Virginia, Maryland, Miami, Florida State, Michigan State, and a host of other schools.