With commitments from quarterbacks Perry Hills and Caleb Rowe, the Terps had no need for another player at that position. But Petty’s strength and athleticism made him an ideal fit at middle linebacker. All he needed to do was impress the Maryland coaches at a recent one-day camp in College Park. Petty said he didn’t feel any pressure heading into camp.

“I just went out there knowing what I can do,” he said. “After the one-on-ones is when [the coaches] started talking to me a lot. They were asking for my information and [I thought] they were going to offer.”

Petty, who said he also received interest from Kansas, Iowa and Pittsburgh, got the Maryland offer the last weekend of June. There was little doubt what his ultimate decision would be.

“I was already pretty sure when it first happened that I was going to commit,” Petty said. "I had to talk to my family first. They all had no problem with it. It’s right down the street.”

Green, who coached Maryland running back Davin Meggett at Surrattsville and Terps defensive end Isaiah Ross in his first year with the Raiders, said Petty brings a lot to the table on either side of the ball.

“He moves really well,” Green said. “He’s a big kid, he’s strong, he’s a good tackler, and he knows football. Starting at quarterback for three years helps. I’m happy for him though.”

Petty said he’s been working out a lot and is excited to indulge in the more physical elements of football that come with his college position.

“I’m just ready to see what they have in store for me,” Petty said. “I’m ready to play at the next level.”