Connecticut linebacker transfers to Maryland
Maryland has added a veteran defensive player to the lineup with the announcement Jefferson Ashiru has transferred from Connecticut.
Ashiru is a graduate transfer, so he is eligible immediately and has one year of eligibility remaining. He will join a defense that lost seven starters from last season, including three starting linebackers, and is moving to a 4-3 from a 3-4.
In announcing the move, Maryland head coach Randy Edsall, who held the same position at Connecticut before taking his current job at Maryland in 2011, said the team is thrilled to welcome Jefferson to the team.
“Jefferson has experience as a starter and can play multiple positions at linebacker," Edsall added. "He has a tremendous work ethic and terrific understanding of the game."
He also noted Ashiru has experience in a system similar to the one Maryland is installing.
Ashiru said relationships developed while being recruited by Edsall and defensive backs coach Darrell Perkins played a role in his choice to be a Terrapin.
"Coach Edsall is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players," Ashiru said via the university. "I’m looking forward to furthering my education and continuing my football career for a great university."
Listed 6-foot-2, 230 pounds at Connecticut, Ashiru had 107 tackles in 24 games for the Huskies. He logged 18 starts.
