Maryland loses rising sophomore pass rusher Zahir Mathis for season

Maryland’s defense faces a significant change after sophomore pass rusher Zahir Mathis was sidelined by a practice injury that will keep him out for the 2026 season. Coach Mike Locksley and his defensive coaches will need to devise new ways to pressure opposing quarterbacks without Mathis, who posted six sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss in 11 games during his freshman year, despite missing two contests due to injury. The absence creates a vacancy on the edge, and freshman Zion Elee is expected to see increased playing time, given his pedigree as a pass rusher.

Mathis’ production had made him an emerging star on the unit, and his departure leaves a notable hole to fill. The team will rely on depth and adjustments to maintain defensive effectiveness throughout the season.