Tommy Akingbesote Maryland DT: Rising Star in Terrapins’ Defensive Line
Tommy Akingbesote is emerging as one of Maryland’s most promising defensive talents. The four-star defensive lineman brings impressive physical tools to the Terrapins’ defensive front. NFL scouts are already noting his long arms and big hands. His athleticism and frame have positioned him as the 19th-ranked defensive tackle nationally and 14th-ranked player in Maryland, making him a legitimate NFL prospect for the 2025 draft.
Standing at just over 6’3″ and weighing 306 pounds, Akingbesote has the size to anchor the interior defensive line while maintaining the agility to disrupt offensive schemes. The ESPN 300 member has shown steady development during his time in College Park. He transformed from a raw talent with potential into a consistent performer who demands attention from opposing offensive coordinators. While he’s still adding weight to his athletic frame, scouts are impressed with his significant capacity to develop physically at the next level.
Contents
Biographical Overview
Tommy Akingbesote has emerged as a standout defensive tackle at Maryland through his combination of impressive physical attributes and developing technical skills. His journey from high school prospect to Big Ten defensive lineman showcases his development as both an athlete and student of the game.
Early Life and High School Career
Tommy Akingbesote hails from Largo, Maryland, where he developed into a formidable defensive line prospect at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. Standing at an imposing 6’4″, Akingbesote displayed natural athleticism that caught recruiters’ attention early in his prep career.
As a high school defender, he showed flashes of the disruptive interior presence he would later become for the Terrapins. Akingbesote earned a four-star rating from major recruiting services, landing him among the top defensive tackle prospects in his class.
His senior season particularly stood out, as he combined raw power with increasingly refined technique. Opposing offensive lines frequently doubled Akingbesote, yet he consistently created havoc in the backfield.
College Recruitment
Akingbesote’s recruitment heated up during his junior year when his combination of size, strength, and quickness made him a priority target for numerous Power Five programs. Maryland faced significant competition from Big Ten rivals and other major programs for his signature.
The home-state Terrapins made Akingbesote a centerpiece of their defensive line recruiting strategy. Their pitch centered on staying close to home while developing in a conference known for producing NFL-caliber defensive linemen.
Despite offers from traditional powerhouses, Akingbesote committed to Maryland in what became a significant in-state recruiting win for head coach Mike Locksley. His decision helped establish a pipeline of local defensive talent choosing to remain in the DMV area.
The four-star defensive tackle’s commitment signaled Maryland’s improving ability to keep elite local talent home – a crucial element in the program’s rebuilding efforts within the competitive Big Ten East division.
Collegiate Career
Tommy Akingbesote’s journey at Maryland has been marked by steady development and increasing impact on the Terrapins’ defensive line. His physical tools and technical growth have made him an important piece in Mike Locksley’s defensive scheme.
Freshman Season Highlights
Akingbesote arrived at Maryland with impressive physical attributes – long arms and big hands that scouts immediately noticed. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 285 pounds, he had the frame coaches look for in a defensive tackle prospect.
His freshman campaign was primarily developmental as he adjusted to the speed and complexity of Big Ten football. Akingbesote appeared in four games, which allowed him to preserve his redshirt status while gaining valuable game experience.
Against Ohio State, he recorded his first collegiate tackle, showing flashes of his disruptive potential against elite competition. Coach Locksley frequently praised Akingbesote’s work ethic in practice, noting his commitment to refining his technique during this learning year.
Sophomore Season Developments
Akingbesote’s sophomore season saw him emerge as a more consistent contributor in Maryland’s defensive rotation. His physical development was evident as he added functional strength to his athletic frame.
He appeared in nine games, recording multiple tackles and his first career sack against Rutgers. His pivotal third-down play helped secure a crucial Big Ten victory. Defensive coaches pointed to his improved hand placement and leverage techniques.
In the midseason matchup against Penn State, Akingbesote posted a career-high three tackles while facing double teams for much of the afternoon. His ability to occupy blockers created opportunities for Maryland’s linebackers to make plays.
The coaching staff gradually increased his snap count as the season progressed, showing growing confidence in his ability to hold his ground against powerful Big Ten offensive lines.
Statistics and Key Performances
Akingbesote’s statistical development reflects his growing role in Maryland’s defense. His career numbers include 32 total tackles and 1 sack through his first two seasons.
| Season | Games | Tackles | TFL | Sacks | FF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 4 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Sophomore | 9 | 27 | 3.5 | 1 | 1 |
His most impactful performance came against Minnesota, where he registered five tackles and a forced fumble that Maryland recovered in their own territory. The turnover proved critical in preserving a one-score lead late in the fourth quarter.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his physical tools, with several draft analysts highlighting him as a potential day-three selection with development. His combination of size and athleticism projects well to the next level if he continues his upward trajectory in the Maryland program.
Akingbesote’s Playing Style
Tommy Akingbesote has developed a distinctive approach on the defensive line during his time at Maryland. His technique and physical attributes have made him a consistent presence for the Terrapins’ defensive front.
Defensive Techniques
Akingbesote excels as a defensive tackle who can handle multiple responsibilities along the line. He’s particularly effective at stack and shed techniques, allowing him to control offensive linemen before disengaging to make plays. This ability makes him valuable in early-down situations where stopping the run is crucial.
What stands out is his motor, which consistently “runs hot” – meaning he brings high energy to every snap. This relentless approach wears down offensive linemen throughout games.
In 2024, Akingbesote started all 12 games on Maryland’s defensive line, demonstrating his durability and importance to the scheme. His experience as a full-time starter has refined his understanding of leverage and gap control.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Akingbesote’s primary strengths lie in his physical tools and work ethic. He combines good size with impressive lateral movement, allowing him to be disruptive both against the run and as an interior pass rusher.
Key Strengths:
- High-energy motor that doesn’t quit
- Effective stack-and-shed technique
- Versatility to play multiple techniques
- Solid durability (started all 12 games in 2024)
His inclusion on the 2024 Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist reflects how his play has caught the attention of NFL scouts. However, he’s not without limitations.
Areas for Improvement:
- Not consistently dominant as a two-gap defender
- Could improve hand technique in pass rush situations
- May need to add more counters to his pass rush repertoire
NFL Draft analysts project Akingbesote as a mid-to-late round selection with upside as a rotational defensive tackle at the next level.
The Maryland Football Program
Tommy Akingbesote’s development has been deeply influenced by Maryland’s football program. The Terrapins have established themselves as a rising power in the Big Ten, with a focus on developing defensive talent and creating pathways to the NFL.
Coaching Philosophy
Maryland’s defensive approach under head coach Mike Locksley emphasizes versatility and aggression. Locksley, now in his seventh season with the Terrapins, has transformed the program’s identity with a defense-first mentality that has particularly benefited defensive linemen like Akingbesote.
“We build from the trenches out,” Locksley often says, and this philosophy has allowed Akingbesote to flourish in Maryland’s 4-3 defensive scheme.
The coaching staff emphasizes technique and positional flexibility, requiring defensive tackles to both plug gaps and generate pressure. This approach has helped Akingbesote develop his pass-rushing skills while maintaining his run-stopping capabilities.
Defensive line coach Brian Williams deserves particular credit for refining Akingbesote’s hand techniques and leverage understanding, turning raw athletic potential into consistent on-field production.
Team Dynamics and Culture
The Terrapins have cultivated a tight-knit defensive unit where linemen push each other daily. Akingbesote benefits from a competitive practice environment that simulates game intensity.
Maryland’s defense operates with a “next man up” mentality, rotating players to maintain freshness. This approach has allowed Akingbesote to maximize his effectiveness while developing alongside peers.
Team accountability sessions each Thursday have become a program staple. Players review film together, offering constructive criticism regardless of seniority.
The defensive line room maintains a “Sack Board” where tackles for loss and QB pressures earn recognition beyond just the glamour stats. Akingbesote’s 32 tackles and 5.0 TFLs last season put him at the top of the unit’s internal competition.
Notable Teammates
Akingbesote’s development has been accelerated by working alongside talented teammates. Quashon Fuller, a graduate transfer, has mentored younger linemen like Akingbesote, sharing techniques from his previous program.
On offense, quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. and running back Roman Hemby provide challenging practice scenarios that have improved Akingbesote’s recognition skills.
| Defensive Line Leaders 2024 | Tackles | TFLs | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tommy Akingbesote | 32 | 5.0 | 1.0 |
| Taizse Johnson | 27 | 4.5 | 2.0 |
| Kellan Wyatt | 24 | 3.0 | 1.5 |
Wide receivers Octavian Smith Jr. and Tai Felton help defensive linemen understand offensive schemes, while tight end Preston Howard provides challenging blocking matchups in practice.
The offensive line trio of Andre Roye Jr., Kyle Long, and Isaac Bunyun creates daily competitive battles that have accelerated Akingbesote’s development into a legitimate NFL prospect.
The Role of a Defensive Tackle
The defensive tackle position demands a unique blend of power, technique, and football intelligence. These interior linemen serve as the anchor of the defensive front, responsible for disrupting offensive plays before they develop.
Position-Specific Skills
A dominant defensive tackle like Tommy Akingbesote must master several core skills to excel. First and foremost is leverage – the ability to stay low and control the point of attack against offensive linemen who often outweigh them.
Hand technique represents another crucial skill. The best DTs use precise hand placement to shed blocks, creating separation from offensive linemen. This technique allows them to pursue ball carriers or collapse the pocket.
Gap discipline can’t be overlooked either. DTs must understand their assignment within the defensive scheme, whether controlling a single gap or reading the offense to attack multiple gaps.
Akingbesote particularly shines in this area, demonstrating the size, length, and athleticism that make him versatile enough to play as an even-front three-technique or odd-front defensive end.
Tactics and Game Strategy
Defensive tackles implement various tactics based on down, distance, and offensive formation.
On early downs, they often focus on stopping the run by occupying blockers and maintaining gap integrity.
In passing situations, DTs transform into interior pass rushers, using bull rushes, swim moves, or rip techniques to collapse the pocket. Their goal: force quarterbacks to scramble or make hurried throws.
Many defensive coordinators employ stunts and twists. These tactics have DTs cross paths with other defensive linemen to confuse blocking assignments and create free rushers.
Key DT Statistics – Tommy Akingbesote
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 32 (16 solo) |
| Tackles For Loss | 5.0 (23 yards) |
| Sacks | 1.0 (9 yards) |
| Forced Fumbles | 1 |
| QB Hurries | 1 |
As Maryland’s leading tackler among defensive linemen, Akingbesote’s production demonstrates his effectiveness implementing these tactics.
Physical and Mental Demands
The position requires exceptional physical traits. Elite DTs possess explosive strength to drive blockers backward and lateral quickness to slide between gaps. Their conditioning must withstand 30-40 high-intensity plays per game.
Body mass distribution matters tremendously. A low center of gravity helps maintain leverage, while upper body strength allows them to control offensive linemen. DTs typically weigh between 290-330 pounds while maintaining surprising athleticism.
Mentally, defensive tackles must process information instantly. They read blocking schemes, recognize play types, and adjust their technique accordingly – all within fractions of a second.
Leadership qualities often separate good DTs from great ones. Akingbesote embodies this, bringing a vocal, critical approach that elevates teammates’ performances. This mental toughness translates into his professional mindset, as he’s stated he’s going to the next level with confidence.
Future Prospects
Tommy Akingbesote’s senior season has positioned him for consideration at the next level. His steady development at Maryland has caught the attention of NFL scouts who value his combination of size and production.
Professional Potential
Akingbesote enters the 2025 NFL Draft as a mid-to-late round prospect with upside that could see his stock rise through the pre-draft process. His impressive senior campaign where he led all Maryland defensive linemen with 32 tackles, five tackles for loss, and a sack demonstrates productivity that NFL teams value.
At Maryland’s recent Pro Day, Akingbesote showcased the physical tools that might translate to the next level. His 5.09 second 40-yard dash shows reasonable mobility for a defensive tackle.
Draft Projection & Metrics
| Metric | Value | NFL Position Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Draft Projection | Rounds 5-7 | DT #14-18 |
| 40-yard dash | 5.09 seconds | Mid-tier |
| Key Stat | 32 tackles (2024) | Led MD DL |
Continued Development
Akingbesote’s journey shows a player with tremendous growth potential. As a four-year contributor at Maryland, the Largo native demonstrated steady improvement each season, culminating in his most productive year as a senior.
His versatility along the defensive line represents a valuable trait for NFL evaluators. Having started all 12 games as a senior, Akingbesote proved durable and consistent.
To maximize his professional opportunities, Akingbesote will need to refine his pass-rushing technique and leverage his strength more consistently at the point of attack. His developmental arc suggests he’s capable of continued growth.
NFL teams will be drawn to his frame, motor, and production against Big Ten competition. His willingness to do the dirty work in the trenches makes him an intriguing developmental prospect for teams looking to build defensive line depth.
Akingbesote Off the Field
Tommy Akingbesote has built a reputation that extends well beyond his defensive line talents at Maryland. His impact in the community and locker room showcases a young man whose character matches his on-field performance.
Community Involvement
Akingbesote has become a fixture in the College Park community through his volunteer efforts. He’s participated in multiple reading programs at local elementary schools, dedicating over 100 hours to literacy initiatives during his time with the Terrapins.
His work with the Maryland Athletics’ food drive collected over 2,000 pounds of donations last year. Tommy personally organized a fundraiser that generated $15,000 for the Children’s National Hospital in nearby Washington D.C.
“I’ve been given so much through football,” Akingbesote told reporters in January. “Giving back isn’t optional for me—it’s essential.”
His commitment extends to youth football camps where he mentors young defensive linemen, focusing particularly on underserved communities in Prince George’s County.
Leadership and Team Impact
In the locker room, Akingbesote’s presence is unmistakable. He was named a team captain for the 2024 season. His leadership style combines vocal motivation with consistent example-setting that resonates with teammates.
Leadership Metrics:
| Category | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Team-voted leadership | 9.2 | Top 3 on team |
| Community service hours | 155 | Team leader |
| Academic standing | 3.7 GPA | Dean’s List (2023-24) |
Teammates consistently cite his pre-dawn workout routines and film study habits as inspiration. Defensive coordinator Brian Williams praised Akingbesote’s ability to diagnose schemes. He also commended his skill in communicating adjustments to younger players.
“Tommy doesn’t just show up on game day,” Williams noted. “He brings everyone’s level up each practice, each meeting.”
NFL scouts have specifically highlighted his character and leadership qualities as factors boosting his mid-round draft stock.
