Maryland’s 2026 Football Outlook
The 2026 campaign will find Maryland in the middle of its schedule, a spot that Rutgers has earmarked as one of the most pivotal games on its own calendar as the Scarlet Knights chase a sixth win.
Head coach Mike Locksley will continue to steer the program, working alongside offensive coordinator Clint Trickett and defensive coordinator Ted Monachino, who together aim to reshape a unit that struggled in the previous season.
At quarterback, Malik Washington brings a wealth of experience, having led the Big Ten with 473 pass attempts last year and posting 2,963 yards, 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
The Terps have bolstered the roster with transfers such as Preston Howard at tight end, Cardell Williams at quarterback and wide receiver Chris Durr Jr., while the highly touted recruit Zion Elee, the program’s highest‑rated prospect ever, adds further excitement.
Defensively, the team added Zion Elee, once ranked second nationally, but the unit still allowed 43 percent conversion on third downs and managed only two fumble recoveries, figures that sit near the bottom of the nation.
Running back Dejuan Williams topped the team with just 501 rushing yards, underscoring a ground game that must improve, while the offensive line, which permitted only nine sacks in 2025 and returns three starters, hopes to provide more stability.
The schedule includes matchups against a variety of opponents, from Florida Atlantic and Towson, where the Terps scored over 20 points, to larger challenges such as games against Auburn, Washington, and Wyoming, each bringing its own strategic considerations.