Edmondson defensive end David Mackall has a theory about Maryland’s recruiting class.

The 6-foot-3, 240-pounder believes the more in-state recruits Maryland lands, the better off the program will be in the long run.

“It’s a big thing because for one, when I used to go up to Maryland for the games, the home crowd was into it,” Mackall said. “And I feel like if more players come from the same place, it’s going to be a better [atmosphere] than if players come from [other areas]. But we’re [all coming from the same place, which helps] because I feel you all have to have that friendship and trust.”

Earlier this week, Mackall became the ninth Maryland resident to commit to the Terps. Mackall picked UM over offers from East Carolina and Eastern Michigan. Georgia, Penn State and Syracuse, among others, recently expressed interest in Mackall.

Mackall, who began his high school career at Woodlawn before joining the Red Storm last season, is already friends with one UM commitment and one prominent target.

“They have a lot of players that I’ve played with that have committed,” Mackall said. “[Archbishop Curley safety] Eric Franklin [and I] played rec football at Hamilton. I think they’re recruiting a lot of good players -- a lot of players that I can’t wait to go up against. ...

“[Dunbar running back] Tavon Austin, me and him went to middle school together [at Lemmel]. ... I talked to him a couple days ago about how he felt about committing to Maryland. I don’t really think [he’s ready to make a decision]. I guess he just wants to wait it out.”

Edmondson head coach Dante Jones said Mackall, who recorded 147 tackles and 13 sacks as a junior, is a “quality kid” who will bring toughness to Maryland’s defense.

“He’s a big, strong, tough kid that’s very physical, very aggressive ... and [he plays with great] passion. He makes plays,” Jones said. “Maryland expects him to play a defensive end/outside linebacker position called LEO.”

Mackall said playing that position was a major factor in his decision.

“I really didn’t know what I wanted to play, linebacker or defensive end, because I love both positions," Mackall said. "Maryland’s system is the only system that had a defensive position like that. ... That’s what I like doing -- rushing the quarterback, sticking running backs, dropping into coverage. And I like to hit.”

Training, working at a clothing store and dealing with recruiting has kept Mackall plenty busy this summer. He said he’s happy to drop the latter activity from his summer routine.

“I’m really excited,” Mackall said. “I’m happy to get this process over with and I just can’t wait to get up there. It’s been really exciting.”