Friedgen trying to catch a receiver

Maryland’s football team is seeking a prominent receiver as the Terrapins near the Feb.4 prep signing date.

Coach Ralph Friedgen yesterday said he’s holding four scholarships for the final push among blue-chip recruits. The Terps earlier concentrated on defensive and offensive linemen with Friedgen already believing he has gained a solid class in his third offseason. But Maryland needs future receivers after losing starting seniors Latrez Harrison and Jafar Williams while junior Steve Suter enters his final season.

“If we strike it rich with these last four [scholarships], which I think we will, it will be very big,” he said. “We’re competing with the traditionally top programs, more so this year. A lot of kids have visited us, but now they go to visit the other schools and they could knock us out. I think people see this program taking off, so I think we’re recruiting enough kids to end strong.”

Meanwhile, Maryland agreed to a five-year, $2.6million deal with Under Armour of Baltimore to exclusively supply football apparel. Founded by former Terps special teams captain Kevin Plank (1992 to 1995), Under Armour is signing its first major college football team. The Terps will be featured in national marketing Under Armour campaigns that Friedgen sees as a recruiting benefit.

“We’re trying to bring the University of Maryland to the world,” Friedgen said. “Hopefully, some day we’ll be known as America’s Team. It’s similar to where Nike was with Oregon [track]. From a marketing standpoint, tying us with them will be a tremendous asset to selling Maryland not only in this area but around the country. People will really identify with us.

“The product gives us an advantage. The uniforms will be drier, lighter. We’ll be cutting edge.”

Friedgen hopes defensive tackle Randy Starks will decide by tomorrow whether to remain for his senior season instead of entering the NFL Draft. The two discussed the potential first-rounder’s fate for two hours on Friday. Starks could slip to the second or third round on April24, but another strong season might make him a high first-rounder. Starks must declare by Thursday.

“I’m hoping he comes back, but if he doesn’t I hope he gets [taken] in the first round,” Friedgen said.

The Terps will spend spring practices from March31 to the April24 spring game searching for a starting quarterback, with Ryan Mitch and Joel Statham the top candidates.

“They’re all at the same level,” Friedgen said of his passers. “We’ll go back to the beginning. Make it simple and see what they can do and grow gradually.”

Friedgen leaves today for Hawaii to coach in the Hula Bowl on Jan.17. Terps quarterback Scott McBrien and tight end Joe Dugan will join guard Lamar Bryant, safety Dennard Wilson and offensive tackle Eric Dumas in the senior all-star game.