Maryland’s tight end room is poised to become a cornerstone of the Terrapins’ offense heading into the 2026 season, blending returning veterans with a fresh influx of talent that could redefine the team’s approach downfield.
At the forefront is Dorian Fleming, a preseason John Mackey Award watchlist nominee who paced the squad with 40 catches in 2025, showcasing a knack for finding soft spots in defenses and turning short routes into big gains.
Joining him is Preston Howard, a redshirt senior who revived his collegiate career after a transfer to Auburn, bringing leadership, size, and a physical brand of play that coaches have come to rely on in critical short‑yard situations.
A Strategic Shift in the Offensive Scheme
Offensive coordinator Clint Trickett has repeatedly highlighted the versatility of Fleming and Howard, likening their skill set to that of NFL stalwarts George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk, underscoring a scheme that prizes both pass catching and blocking.
Despite a modest 49 total receptions from the position in 2025, which accounted for just 18 percent of quarterback Malik Washington’s completions, the group’s depth was evident with contributions from unexpected sources throughout the season.
Midseason acquisition Daniel Owens, formerly a defensive lineman, added a new dimension to the unit, while senior AJ Szymanski is expected to shoulder more blocking responsibilities after Leon Haughton Jr.’s departure left a void in the line.
The arrival of three‑star recruits Damon Hall Jr., Javonte Williams and Brayden Marko promises additional options, though their exact roles remain to be defined as the coaching staff experiments with formations and personnel groupings.
With a mixture of seasoned leaders and promising newcomers, the Terps’ tight ends are positioned to expand their impact, potentially reshaping the offense’s rhythm and effectiveness in the coming year.