Terps add massive DC lineman

Early commitments continue to come in for the Terrapins from prospects across the area. The latest came from Washington (D.C.) Gonzaga offensive guard A.J. Francis. The 6-foot-4, 305-pounder committed to Maryland offer an offer from Wake Forest and a handful of others according to his coach Kenny Lucas.

"He actually has been committed for a couple weeks now," he said. "I had a brief conversation with A.J. and his dad after the decision and both felt very comfortable there. He believes he's got a good opportunity to go in a year from now and make an impact early on. I think he also does like the fact it's close to home, so his parents can see him play. I know he wanted to get the decision off his chest.

"I know he likes the staff at Maryland. He has formed a relationship with them, having gone to their camps the past two summers. There's a sense of comfort with the campus and he likes the chance to contribute early."

Lucas went on to discuss what kind of player the Terrapins are getting.

"I think they're getting a good one," he said. "He has no reached his capacity and is still a young man that is growing in the right areas. He still can afford to get smarter, stronger and be a better player, but his best years are ahead of him.

"He's a versatile player on both sides of the ball. I think Maryland is recruiting him more for defense."

Off the field, Lucas claims Francis is a great person too.

"He's a terrific kid that's well versed and rounded, not literally," he said. "He's an outgoing kid that gets involved in activities you wouldn't expect of a jock. He's involved with the drama club, campus TV station and does a lot off the field that helps make him who he is."