Friedgen said he has been impressed with the athleticism and speed displayed by such a large player. Getting open, however, is Haynos? skill that made Friedgen and Hollenbach look towards him more often.

“I have confidence in him because I call plays where he is able to get open,” Friedgen said.

The tight end position became a question mark for the Terps this season with the early departure of Vernon Davis to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL draft last spring. Friedgen was quick to say that nobody can replace Davis and fewcan accomplish the things he did in college.

That said, there are plays Maryland used to run with Davis that Haynos, a native of Rockville who played prep ball at Gonzaga (D.C.), has executed well.

“We probably use him too much,” Friedgen said.

When asked to point out the difference between the 2005 and 2006 seasons, Haynos first pointed to the absence of Davis.

“I have gotten stronger and faster, and it has helped make some plays,” Haynos said. “I am just trying to fill a void left by Vernon as best I can.”

Haynos said he learned a lot of things under Davis, but the biggest was Davis? work ethic.

“The kid worked harder than anybody I have ever seen,” Haynos said. “His strength and speed the way it is, a lot of it was natural, but he worked so hard at it that he deserved every bit he gets.”

Haynos? work ethic is laudable, as well. It shows in his transition from walk-on to scholarship player before the 2005 season.

Catching on

» Quarterback Sam Hollenbach can depend on Haynos for more than catching the ball. Haynos? size and speed make him an excellent blocker, as well.

» Playing behind Vernon Davis last year, Haynos saw action in nine games, catching one pass for a three-yard touchdown.