The Maryland Terrapins had a rather successful draft weekend that culminated with two draft picks, and three other former Terrapins signing as undrafted free agents.
With the 24th pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers selected DJ Moore, Maryland’s single season receptions record holder. Moore was the first wide receiver off the board and this pick came with a number of positive reactions.
Cheers and tears...
— Maryland Football (@TerpsFootball) April 27, 2018
So proud of you, @idjmoore! pic.twitter.com/Z1fud0Mcz7
https://twitter.com/TorreySmithWR/status/989697991920553986
Cam Newton texted Ron Rivera after the pick of DJ Moore: "Thank you."
— Joe Person (@josephperson) April 27, 2018
The most meaningful reaction to the pick was by Panthers legendary receiver Steve Smith, who stated, “they have never been able to replace me… until today.”
https://twitter.com/fearthe_beard11/status/989698971651096577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbssports.com%2Fnfl%2Fnews%2Fsteve-smith-on-nfl-draft-pick-d-j-moore-panthers-havent-replaced-me-until-today%2F&tfw_creator=skiverK9&tfw_site=cbssports
Maryland’s other NFL talent went in the fifth round, as Jermaine Carter was drafted 161st overall by the Carolina Panthers. He will help add depth behind Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis.
The Terrapins also had three players sign after the draft as free agents.
https://twitter.com/TerpsFootball/status/990417998329630728
JC Jackson landed with the New England Patriots, which comes as no surprise given that their scouts put him through specific drills during Maryland’s Pro Day.
Kingsley Opara and Cavon Walker found homes with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears respectively.
In his last season at Maryland, Opara played in all 12 games and started 11, where he racked up 26 tackles, two of which were for a loss. He took part in Maryland’s Pro Day and was listed as a priority free agent by scouts.
Walker went rather under the radar despite what could be considered and even better season than Opara. Walker finished with a team leading 51 appearances throughout his career, and finished his senior season with 38 tackles, six of which went for a loss.
Overall, this was a successful NFL Draft for DJ Durkin and his former players. Next year’s potential draft class could include seniors Ty Johnson, Jesse Aniebonam, Darnell Savage Jr. and more.