Maryland Lands Top 2026 DE Prospect Zion Elee – ESPN
In a groundbreaking move for the Maryland Terrapins, five-star defensive end Zion Elee, ranked as ESPN’s number one defender in the Class of 2026, has officially committed to the team. Standing tall at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 220 pounds, Elee hails from Baltimore and has solidified his spot as the eighth overall prospect in the ESPN Junior 300 rankings.
The Commitment
After taking unofficial visits to powerhouse football programs like Penn State, Florida, Miami, and Texas A&M, Elee ultimately decided to stay close to home and represent Maryland. He turned down offers from top-tier schools like Oregon, Alabama, and Penn State to become a Terrapin. This commitment makes Elee the highest-rated recruit in Maryland’s history since ESPN began tracking recruiting rankings in 2006, surpassing former star Stefon Diggs.
Elee’s Impact
Known for his exceptional length and technique on the field, Elee has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most skilled defensive prospects in his class. His standout performance during his sophomore year at Joppatowne High School, where he tallied an impressive 64 tackles and 13 sacks, caught the attention of college recruiters nationwide.
Recruiting Momentum
Maryland’s successful recruitment of Elee signals a promising start to their 2026 class. The team, led by coach Mike Locksley, is looking to build on their momentum after signing six ESPN prospects in the 2025 class. With Elee’s commitment, the Terrapins are on track to solidify their position as a competitive force in college football.
As we witness Elee’s journey from a standout high school player to a future star on the college football stage, we can’t help but be inspired by his dedication and hard work. His decision to choose Maryland speaks volumes about his loyalty and commitment to his roots, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in his athletic career. Let’s keep an eye on Zion Elee as he takes the next step towards greatness on the gridiron.