In a significant move for Maryland football, the team has successfully secured its first recruit from the transfer portal as of late Saturday, addressing a crucial need in their roster. Running back Trequan Jones, who previously played at Old Dominion, has officially committed to the Terrapins, bringing with him a proven ability to make big plays, along with one remaining year of eligibility.
Jones distinguished himself in the transfer portal as one of the most productive and efficient running backs, boasting an impressive average of 7.5 yards per carry, which positions him second nationally among all FBS players. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 183 pounds, he chose to join the Terps, even opting to cancel visits previously scheduled with other schools including Michigan State, Cincinnati, Louisville, and Pittsburgh. This decision underscores the strong finish that Maryland had in recruiting him.
Essentially stepping into the role vacated by departing running back Nolan Ray, Jones had a standout season where he rushed for a total of 792 yards and scored six touchdowns across 105 carries, which featured two games where he exceeded the 100-yard mark. His track record speaks volumes, as he has maintained an average of at least six yards per carry over his last three seasons, accumulating 20 career rushing touchdowns from 247 carries, totaling 1,863 yards. Prior to his time at Old Dominion, Jones laid the groundwork for his success during his first two college seasons at Georgia Military College, where he rushed for 1,071 yards and found the end zone 14 times, setting the stage for his eventual emergence at the FBS level.
Hailing from Bartow, Florida, Jones was recognized as the 40th best running back in 247Sports' transfer portal rankings. His addition not only enhances Maryland's backfield options but also solidifies their prospects as they head into the 2026 season.
Last autumn, Brendan Sonnone of 247Sports highlighted Jones among six notable Group of Five players likely to shine in Power Conference programs following their transfer. He noted that although Jones didn’t have any carries against Indiana, he quickly made headlines by racking up five carries for an astounding 163 yards and three touchdowns against North Carolina Central, an FCS opponent. He followed that performance with 101 rushing yards on just 13 carries in a game against Virginia Tech, which was a pivotal moment for the opposing coach Brent Pry.
What sets Jones apart is his capability to run with patience and rhythm, allowing blocks to develop while skillfully navigating through gaps. His explosive burst allows him to take advantage of any opportunities that present themselves on the field. With nimble footwork and keen vision, Jones appears poised for another leap in his career after this season.
However, he does face a potential drawback due to his lighter frame, coming in at 5 feet 9 inches and 183 pounds. This aspect could lead to varying opinions about his long-term viability in the more demanding landscape of college football.
