RJ Maryland Scouting Report - TE, SMU

Dive into our RJ Maryland scouting report, covering his bio, traits, player comparison, and NFL projection. Unlock the complete analysis in our Rookie Guide.

Mike Kashuba's RJ Maryland Scouting Report - TE, SMU Mike Kashuba Published 01/20/2026

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RJ Maryland

Bio

  • Hometown: Southlake, TX
  • School:  SMU
  • Year: Senior

Measurables

  • Height: 6-4
  • Weight: 240

Scouting Report

RJ Maryland was on a superstar track before injuries derailed his college career. His father, Russell Maryland, was the number one pick in the 1991 NFL draft. RJ ran track in high school with an 11.3 100-meter dash and was a four-star tight end recruit. He committed to SMU and made an immediate impact, starting for all four seasons. The trajectory was clear, with noticeable improvements each season until an ACL tear stopped his junior campaign. He returned to SMU after his injury and played every game in 2025.

Maryland is a tale of two different tapes. In 2024, he was a pseudo-wide receiver, and SMU did everything they could to get the ball in his hands. He was a menace to cover on vertical routes where his long strides chew up any cushion, and he used his entire frame to box out defenders at the catch point. In 2025, some of that athleticism was sapped, and his limitations as a blocker kept him off the field.

Rundown

Teams looking to take a swing on a field-stretching move tight end will find plenty to like in Maryland -- if he can regain his 2024 form.

Player Comp

Chig Okonkwo

NFL Range of Outcomes

Average Backup to Pro Bowler


For more information on RJ Maryland and the rest of the 2026 rookie class, get our Rookie Guide today! And come back to this page after the NFL Combine and NFL Draft for updated information!

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