The University of Maryland football program is turning things around in the 2025 recruiting season. It just added another top talent: Sean O’Haire. The Irish kicker, recently committed to the Terrapins, Gaelic Gridiron, broke the news on X a few hours ago, calling it part of an “Irish college football takeover.” But what does this mean for Maryland, and how does O’Haire fit into their plans?
O’Haire’s Journey from Ireland to College Football Stardom
O’Haire, hailing from Ireland, where Gaelic football and rugby get more recognition than American football, took an unconventional path to the NCAA. He first made his mark in the U.S. with the University of Richmond Spiders in 2024, where he played in four regular-season games and one playoff game as a freshman.
Earning a redshirt, he became Richmond’s third-leading scorer, proving his leg could compete at the college level. But Maryland saw something more in him: a chance to diversify their roster and tap into the growing pipeline of Irish talent.
O’Haire’s commitment to Maryland, announced today, didn’t just catch the attention of Terrapins fans. Gaelic Gridiron, a group tracking the rise of Irish players in American football since at least 2024, celebrated the move.
In 2024, the Terrapins finished with a disappointing 4-8 record, missing a bowl game and exposing gaps in their roster. But Locksley and his staff didn’t sit idle.
The 2025 recruiting class, ranked 27th nationally by Rivals, includes 24 commitments, with O’Haire as one of seven new additions announced in the spring. Locksley’s approach has been clear: build a team with depth, versatility, and unique talent.
A massive congratulations to Ireland’s Sean O’Haire on his commitment to Maryland Football as a kicker! 🇮🇪🏈
The Irish college football takeover continues! pic.twitter.com/XEL0HUFzap
— Gaelic Gridiron (@gaelicgridiron) May 14, 2025
So, what can Maryland fans expect from O’Haire on the field? As a kicker, his role might seem niche. The Terrapins struggled with consistency in their special teams last season, and O’Haire’s experience at Richmond suggests he could provide stability.
His freshman stats with the Spiders show he’s capable of handling pressure, and at Maryland, he’ll have the chance to compete for the starting spot right away.
The Bigger Picture for Maryland and International Recruiting
The hope is that O’Haire’s success will attract more global talent to College football. At the same time, Maryland’s 2025 season will be a test of Locksley’s vision. With a revamped roster and new faces, the Terrapins have a chance to surprise some teams in the Big Ten.
KEEP READING: Is Malik Washington Maryland’s Next Big Star After His Stunning Spring Game?
But the road ahead is tough, and success will depend on how well these new pieces come together. O’Haire, for his part, will need to prove he can handle the pressure of playing in a bigger program with higher expectations. O’Haire’s commitment could be a turning point for Maryland football if he performs well.
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