Maryland head coach Mike Locksley confirmed the Terrapins will be down a key linebacker for Friday’s game against Iowa.

That player is true freshman Branden Jennings. According to Locksley, Jennings was unable to practice in any capacity during the week. That means Jennings will be unavailable against the Hawkeyes.

Despite being a true freshman, Jennings is already one of the best players on Maryland’s defense. He is tied for the team lead with 18 total tackles and has 1 TFL. Jennings is also one of 4 Terrapin defenders to register a forced fumble this season.

Jennings was a 4-star recruit for the class of 2021 out of Jacksonville, Florida. He was the third-highest recruit for Maryland’s class and has proven to be an immediate contributor for Locksley’s squad. Hopefully, the Terrapins get some other contributors to step up in Jennings’ absence.