Meet A Terp: McDonogh DB Josh Woods

Terps signee Josh Woods is an under-the-radar prospect that could turn some heads in his first season at Maryland. (Mandatory Credit: Press Box Online)

After being named the MVP of the Big 33 game last Friday, Maryland signee Josh Woods is building a strong reputation before he comes to College Park to begin his career as a Terrapin. Once known as the teammate of then-Terp commit Jared Cohen, Cohen pestered the staff to take a look at Woods, who was a long, quick safety. After some evaluation, the staff pulled the trigger and the rest was history.

But no one knew much about him. The hype was there, but many were waiting to see how he would do this upcoming fall in his first season on the team. Woods decided to show everyone what he was made of a little sooner.

After coming up with three interceptions, Woods led the way for Team Maryland in their double-overtime 31-24 victory over Team Pennsylvania.

Woods said that his performance “boosted my confidence level for sure.” When asked how his performance and skill set will translate to the college game, Woods said that his strengths are “high pointing the ball for sure and coming up with a lot of interceptions.” With a defense that is losing cornerback Dexter McDougle, all the interceptions will be welcomed by defensive coordinator Brian Stewart. Woods brings versatility to the defense and a resilient knack for the ball.

Woods’ speed and long arms allow him to disrupt plays and become a ballhawk. Learning under Stewart will give him time to develop his game and become a starter for Maryland in the near future.

Woods said that he has good relationships with some of the guys on the team, but that mainly that he “can’t wait to get down to College Park and see what I can do.” With such high energy and passion for the beloved Maryland Terrapins, Woods has begun recruiting others to the team, such as former teammate Wyatt Cook. Cook is considered a Maryland lean, but it seems to be a little early in his recruitment for him to make the commitment just yet. As for Woods, when asked what his personal goals are for next year, Woods put it simply: “be the best at whatever coach wants me to be.”

Woods has the talent to become a big player for the rising Maryland defense and the heart to become the next fan favorite. Maryland looks to have found another gem in yet another solid recruiting class. And come Saturdays this fall, Woods may be coming up with some B1G performances.