In a groundbreaking move to elevate its football program, the University of Maryland has hired former Terrapins wide receiver Elijah Brooks as the team’s first-ever general manager. The announcement signals a significant shift in the program’s approach to recruiting, player development, and overall program management as the Terps seek to solidify their standing in the competitive Big Ten Conference.
Brooks, a standout wide receiver for Maryland from 2010 to 2013, brings a wealth of experience both on and off the field. Since his playing days, Brooks has carved out a reputation as a rising star in coaching and player personnel management. Most recently, he served as the head coach at DeMatha Catholic High School, a nationally recognized football powerhouse in the Washington, D.C. area. His success in developing elite talent at DeMatha, many of whom went on to play Division I football, makes him an ideal candidate to spearhead Maryland’s efforts to attract top-tier recruits while maintaining a focus on holistic player development.
The general manager role is a relatively new concept in college football but has gained traction as programs grapple with the complexities of roster management in the era of the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. As general manager, Brooks will oversee recruiting operations, manage the transfer portal, and work closely with the coaching staff to identify and address roster needs. Additionally, he is expected to play a key role in building relationships with high school coaches and prospective student-athletes, particularly in Maryland’s recruiting hotbeds like the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia).
Head coach Mike Locksley expressed enthusiasm about the hire, stating, “Elijah understands what it means to be a Terp, and he has a proven track record of developing young men on and off the field. His knowledge of the recruiting landscape and his ability to connect with players and their families make him the perfect fit for this role.”
Brooks’ appointment comes at a pivotal time for Maryland football. With the program showing signs of progress under Locksley, including back-to-back bowl appearances, the addition of a general manager underscores the school’s commitment to sustained success. As the Terps aim to compete with perennial Big Ten powerhouses like Ohio State and Michigan, the hope is that Brooks’ presence will help the program close the gap and establish itself as a contender on the national stage.
Leave a Reply