16 days ago
Texas A&M's season opener vs. Missouri State kicks off on Saturday night, and after a productive preseason, coach Mike Elko, entering Year 3 at the helm after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff last season, is confident that his revamped roster is ready for battle, facing the new nine-game SEC schedule that features road tests vs. LSU, Missouri, Alabama, South Carolina, and Oklahoma.
Last week, Mike Elko's first in-season press conference revealed that a pair of redshirt freshmen will miss the season due to injury: running back Tiger Riden and defensive tackle Chace Sims were set to compete for reserve roles but will now have to wait until the 2027 offseason to compete for rotational roles.
Combined with former five-star wide receiver Jerome Myles and former four-star OL Nelson McGuire departing the program for unknown reasons, Elko's various media appearances on Wednesday did not include any new injury updates, which is obviously great news for the Aggies, who will heavily rely on their depth at every position to get through the nine-game conference schedule.
Most importantly, senior linebacker Daymion Sanford is on track to make his debut after suffering a lower-body injury to his fibula during the Maroon & White Game, as Elko stated that Sanford remains a "game-time decision" but is on track to play vs. Missouri State.
"Right now, yes. Probably still a little bit of a game-time decision. To ask me right now, I anticipate him being out there," Elko told TexAgs about Sanford on Monday.
#injury
Last week, Mike Elko's first in-season press conference revealed that a pair of redshirt freshmen will miss the season due to injury: running back Tiger Riden and defensive tackle Chace Sims were set to compete for reserve roles but will now have to wait until the 2027 offseason to compete for rotational roles.
Combined with former five-star wide receiver Jerome Myles and former four-star OL Nelson McGuire departing the program for unknown reasons, Elko's various media appearances on Wednesday did not include any new injury updates, which is obviously great news for the Aggies, who will heavily rely on their depth at every position to get through the nine-game conference schedule.
Most importantly, senior linebacker Daymion Sanford is on track to make his debut after suffering a lower-body injury to his fibula during the Maroon & White Game, as Elko stated that Sanford remains a "game-time decision" but is on track to play vs. Missouri State.
"Right now, yes. Probably still a little bit of a game-time decision. To ask me right now, I anticipate him being out there," Elko told TexAgs about Sanford on Monday.
#injury
28 days ago
Texas A&M's 2026 season opener is just a mere two weeks away, as the Aggies will open the new campaign against Missouri State in Kyle Field, officially kicking off coach Mike Elko's third season at the helm. While it would take several articles to accurately recap A&M's previous 13 practices, including last Saturday's scrimmage, this Saturday's final media-viewing practice was certainly the most informative.
Instead of giving away most of what we saw on Saturday, it's always important to start from the beginning: After making the College Football Playoff for the first time last season, Mike Elko's offseason premonition that "10 to 12" players would be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft came true, as a record 10 starters were picked, including star wide receiver KC Concepcion going 24th overall to the Cleveland Browns.
Elko's premonition helped prepare for the offseason departures, as 65% of the 2025 roster returns, combined with 17 transfer portal additions and nearly 30 freshmen from the 2026 signing class. While losing 15 starters on both sides of the ball certainly looks like a rebuild, that is far from the case.
With key starters returning at every position, led by redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, junior wide receiver Mario Craver, safeties Dalton Brooks and Marcus Ratcliffe, and linebacker Daymion Sanford, four of five team captains will be counted on to lead on the field and in the locker room.
On Saturday, all five players and several others stood out for the final time before the season opener, while a couple of position battles may have been decided as well. Here are three key takeaways from Texas A&M's practice on Saturday.
#texas #mike #opener
Instead of giving away most of what we saw on Saturday, it's always important to start from the beginning: After making the College Football Playoff for the first time last season, Mike Elko's offseason premonition that "10 to 12" players would be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft came true, as a record 10 starters were picked, including star wide receiver KC Concepcion going 24th overall to the Cleveland Browns.
Elko's premonition helped prepare for the offseason departures, as 65% of the 2025 roster returns, combined with 17 transfer portal additions and nearly 30 freshmen from the 2026 signing class. While losing 15 starters on both sides of the ball certainly looks like a rebuild, that is far from the case.
With key starters returning at every position, led by redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, junior wide receiver Mario Craver, safeties Dalton Brooks and Marcus Ratcliffe, and linebacker Daymion Sanford, four of five team captains will be counted on to lead on the field and in the locker room.
On Saturday, all five players and several others stood out for the final time before the season opener, while a couple of position battles may have been decided as well. Here are three key takeaways from Texas A&M's practice on Saturday.
#texas #mike #opener
1 month ago
Texas A&M's third preseason practice, and first full practice open to the media, on Saturday showcased the rise of junior wide receiver Terry Bussey and provided more proof that redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, entering his second full starting season, has significantly improved his accuracy and ball placement.
Among the Aggies' 17 transfer portal additions this offseason, former Northwestern Edge Anto Saka and Tennessee transfer cornerback Rickey Gibson III continue to shine in their roles, looking to replace unanimous All-American pass rusher Cashius Howell and veteran corner Will Lee, who were two of A&M's record 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
On Monday, Texas A&M's fifth preseason practice further emphasized the offense, as Marcel Reed and his elite wide receiver rotation, now including Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton, continued to build chemistry, which is already established with Mario Craver and Ashton Bethel-Roman, while freshmen Aaron Gregory and Madden Williams would likely start for several SEC teams who don't possess the Aggies' depth.
Texas A&M's running battle between Rueben Owens and Jamarion Morrow continues to take shape, and after an impressive performance this weekend, freshman KJ Edwards' athleticism continues to impress coach Mike Elko and his staff. Redshirt freshman back Tiger Riden showed off his blocking skills on Monday, and senior linebacker Daymion Sanford's return is nothing short of incredible given the severity of his fibula injury.
Here are the best highlights from Texas A&M's fifth preseason practice on Monday evening.
#full
Among the Aggies' 17 transfer portal additions this offseason, former Northwestern Edge Anto Saka and Tennessee transfer cornerback Rickey Gibson III continue to shine in their roles, looking to replace unanimous All-American pass rusher Cashius Howell and veteran corner Will Lee, who were two of A&M's record 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
On Monday, Texas A&M's fifth preseason practice further emphasized the offense, as Marcel Reed and his elite wide receiver rotation, now including Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton, continued to build chemistry, which is already established with Mario Craver and Ashton Bethel-Roman, while freshmen Aaron Gregory and Madden Williams would likely start for several SEC teams who don't possess the Aggies' depth.
Texas A&M's running battle between Rueben Owens and Jamarion Morrow continues to take shape, and after an impressive performance this weekend, freshman KJ Edwards' athleticism continues to impress coach Mike Elko and his staff. Redshirt freshman back Tiger Riden showed off his blocking skills on Monday, and senior linebacker Daymion Sanford's return is nothing short of incredible given the severity of his fibula injury.
Here are the best highlights from Texas A&M's fifth preseason practice on Monday evening.
#full
2 months ago
As we gear up for the 2026 football season, Aggies Wire is breaking down nearly every player on the Texas A&M roster. Throughout the preseason, each profile will highlight a player's background, high school recruiting rankings, and projected role under head coach Mike Elko.
Texas A&M entered the offseason with a clear priority in the trenches. By the end of last year, the defensive line depth gap became impossible to ignore, and it showed up at the worst possible time. In a windy playoff matchup against Miami where running the ball was essential to controlling the game, the Aggies held firm early. But once Albert Regis went down with an injury, the interior collapsed, and Miami seized momentum on the ground.
Shoring up the interior defensive line became a top offseason objective, and Illinois transfer Angelo McCullom has quickly emerged as one of the most important additions. Teammates and coaches have praised his strength, physicality, and ability to anchor against downhill run schemes. Starting linebacker and team captain Daymion Sanford singled him out as a player to watch.
McCullom's raw power is undeniable. He's posted a 470‑pound bench press and he already thrives as a rotational piece. He enters the 2026 season with a 70.3 run‑defense grade, giving the Aggies a sturdy interior presence they lacked late last year. With continued development, McCullom could help transform the IDL into one of the program's most reliable units this fall.
Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio
#Miami #season
Texas A&M entered the offseason with a clear priority in the trenches. By the end of last year, the defensive line depth gap became impossible to ignore, and it showed up at the worst possible time. In a windy playoff matchup against Miami where running the ball was essential to controlling the game, the Aggies held firm early. But once Albert Regis went down with an injury, the interior collapsed, and Miami seized momentum on the ground.
Shoring up the interior defensive line became a top offseason objective, and Illinois transfer Angelo McCullom has quickly emerged as one of the most important additions. Teammates and coaches have praised his strength, physicality, and ability to anchor against downhill run schemes. Starting linebacker and team captain Daymion Sanford singled him out as a player to watch.
McCullom's raw power is undeniable. He's posted a 470‑pound bench press and he already thrives as a rotational piece. He enters the 2026 season with a 70.3 run‑defense grade, giving the Aggies a sturdy interior presence they lacked late last year. With continued development, McCullom could help transform the IDL into one of the program's most reliable units this fall.
Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio
#Miami #season
2 months ago
Texas A&M's 2026 offseason is coming to an end after coach Mike Elko, quarterback Marcel Reed, linebacker Daymion Sanford, and safety Marcus Ratcliffe spoke to the local and national media during SEC Media Days last week, providing an extensive preview of the 2026 season, while all three players provided important updates regarding their personal progress, especially Daymion Sanford's injury status.
It's been a relatively quiet offseason for the Aggies, even though Marcel Reed has made the media rounds with several outlets, including On3, while Mike Elko has made several stops at the various A&M clubs in Texas. After making the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, Elko saw a record 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including transfer WR KC Concepcion going 24th overall to the Cleveland Browns.
Elko's preseason premonition that "10 to 12" players would be selected in the draft led to the third-year coach landing 17 players from the transfer portal, combined with 65% of the 2025 roster returning and the 2026 signing class, which, on paper, should result in the Aggies once again contending for a CFP berth.
Texas A&M's fall camp will officially begin on Tuesday, August 4, with the first practice slated for the following Wednesday. AggieYell insider Carter Karels was the first to report that Mike Elko will speak to the media three times next month, while first-year OC Holmon Wiggins and DC Lyle Hemphill will be available two times to take questions from the local media.
Karels also revealed that there will be three open practices, strictly for media members, along with "early viewing windows" similar to last preseason during the first part of practice. Mike Elko's first press conference will be next Tuesday afternoon.
#texas #three #daymion
It's been a relatively quiet offseason for the Aggies, even though Marcel Reed has made the media rounds with several outlets, including On3, while Mike Elko has made several stops at the various A&M clubs in Texas. After making the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, Elko saw a record 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including transfer WR KC Concepcion going 24th overall to the Cleveland Browns.
Elko's preseason premonition that "10 to 12" players would be selected in the draft led to the third-year coach landing 17 players from the transfer portal, combined with 65% of the 2025 roster returning and the 2026 signing class, which, on paper, should result in the Aggies once again contending for a CFP berth.
Texas A&M's fall camp will officially begin on Tuesday, August 4, with the first practice slated for the following Wednesday. AggieYell insider Carter Karels was the first to report that Mike Elko will speak to the media three times next month, while first-year OC Holmon Wiggins and DC Lyle Hemphill will be available two times to take questions from the local media.
Karels also revealed that there will be three open practices, strictly for media members, along with "early viewing windows" similar to last preseason during the first part of practice. Mike Elko's first press conference will be next Tuesday afternoon.
#texas #three #daymion
2 months ago
As we gear up for the 2026 football season, Aggies Wire is breaking down nearly every player on the Texas A&M roster. Throughout the preseason, each profile will highlight a player's background, recruiting rankings out of high school, and projected role under head coach Mike Elko.
Texas A&M's run defense left plenty to be desired at times last season, and just as Elko made it a priority to overhaul the secondary with length and speed, he approached the linebacker room with the same intentionality. The staff has done a strong job building a youthful foundation, but they needed a veteran presence who could step in and stabilize the unit immediately. Enter senior Tulsa transfer Ray Coney.
Coney's importance grew even further once projected starter Daymion Sanford suffered a lower‑body injury during the Maroon & White Spring Game, sidelining him for an unspecified portion of the 2026 campaign. In his lone season at Tulsa, Coney was one of the most productive linebackers in the American Conference, recording 129 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. His breakout year earned him 2025 American All‑Conference First Team honors, 2025 Phil Steele's American Conference First Team recognition, and a spot on the 2025 East‑West Shrine Bowl 1000 Watch List.
There's real optimism inside the program about what Coney can become in Elko's system, and the Aggies will need that development to materialize quickly as they search for his running mate until Sanford returns to the lineup.
Hometown: Fairfield, Ohio
#coney #season #texas
Texas A&M's run defense left plenty to be desired at times last season, and just as Elko made it a priority to overhaul the secondary with length and speed, he approached the linebacker room with the same intentionality. The staff has done a strong job building a youthful foundation, but they needed a veteran presence who could step in and stabilize the unit immediately. Enter senior Tulsa transfer Ray Coney.
Coney's importance grew even further once projected starter Daymion Sanford suffered a lower‑body injury during the Maroon & White Spring Game, sidelining him for an unspecified portion of the 2026 campaign. In his lone season at Tulsa, Coney was one of the most productive linebackers in the American Conference, recording 129 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. His breakout year earned him 2025 American All‑Conference First Team honors, 2025 Phil Steele's American Conference First Team recognition, and a spot on the 2025 East‑West Shrine Bowl 1000 Watch List.
There's real optimism inside the program about what Coney can become in Elko's system, and the Aggies will need that development to materialize quickly as they search for his running mate until Sanford returns to the lineup.
Hometown: Fairfield, Ohio
#coney #season #texas
2 months ago
On Wednesday, Texas A&M coach Mike Elko, alongside quarterback Marcel Reed, safety Marcus Ratcliffe, and linebacker Daymion Sanford, spoke to the local and national media during SEC Media Days, and after suffering what looked like a serious lower-body injury during the Maroon & White Game, Daymion Sanford, who is entering his senior season, has already graduated from his walking boot after undergoing surgery this summer.
On track to potentially return to the field earlier than expected, Sanford stated on Wednesday that he is already running again, while his recovery was "more of a mindset thing" the required plenty of patience without affecting his return timeline, while steadfast support from Mike Elko, and knowing that the Aggie linebacker rotation is in good shape with transfer Ray Coney and rising sophomore Noah Mikhail leading the way before he returns.
"I think it's going to be pretty difficult," Sanford stated. "But it's more of a mindset thing that I've learned throughout this process. You have to celebrate the small wins every day and make yourself feel good. So I've been celebrating the small wins, like being able to walk again, being able to get out of the brace, being able to run, stuff like that."
During the first portion of his Q&A with the local Aggie media, Sanford was asked which defensive player on the roster is under the radar entering the 2026 season, and while a long list of returning players could have been named, Sanford chose Illinois transfer defensive tackle Angelo McCullom, who reportedly hit a new bench press personal record of 470 pounds.
While North Carolina transfer defensive tackle CJ Mims is expected to start at nose tackle, McCullom, who appeared in 12 games at nose tackle last season, recording 19 tackles and 2 sacks, will serve as his primary backup. Per Pro Football Focus, McCullom finished the year with a solid 70.3 run defense grade.
#season
On track to potentially return to the field earlier than expected, Sanford stated on Wednesday that he is already running again, while his recovery was "more of a mindset thing" the required plenty of patience without affecting his return timeline, while steadfast support from Mike Elko, and knowing that the Aggie linebacker rotation is in good shape with transfer Ray Coney and rising sophomore Noah Mikhail leading the way before he returns.
"I think it's going to be pretty difficult," Sanford stated. "But it's more of a mindset thing that I've learned throughout this process. You have to celebrate the small wins every day and make yourself feel good. So I've been celebrating the small wins, like being able to walk again, being able to get out of the brace, being able to run, stuff like that."
During the first portion of his Q&A with the local Aggie media, Sanford was asked which defensive player on the roster is under the radar entering the 2026 season, and while a long list of returning players could have been named, Sanford chose Illinois transfer defensive tackle Angelo McCullom, who reportedly hit a new bench press personal record of 470 pounds.
While North Carolina transfer defensive tackle CJ Mims is expected to start at nose tackle, McCullom, who appeared in 12 games at nose tackle last season, recording 19 tackles and 2 sacks, will serve as his primary backup. Per Pro Football Focus, McCullom finished the year with a solid 70.3 run defense grade.
#season
2 months ago
Texas A&M coach Mike Elko, quarterback Marcel Reed, linebacker Daymion Sanford, and safety Marcus Ratcliffe spoke to the local and national media during SEC Media Days, previewing the 2026 season at length, especially for those outside the Aggie media sphere who have not paid attention until now.
Entering his second full starting season, Marcel Reed is on track to match his career-high 3,169 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in 2025, while his 12 interceptions were tied for the second most in the SEC; but after adding former Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Horton this offseason, Reed is well equipped to take more shots down the field given Horton's size advantage, especially in the red zone.
However, after offensive coordinator Collin Klein departed to take over as Kansas State's head coach, and instead of hiring outside the program, Mike Elko elevated wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins, who, despite his lack of play-calling experience, served as Klein's Co-OC over the last two seasons, and was former Alabama head coach Nick Saban's long-time WR coach and AHC before making his way to College Station.
On Wednesday, Austin, Texas-based reporter Cory Mose asked Marcel Reed how the transition from Collin Klein to Holmon Wiggins has been just over 40 days before Texas A&M's season-opener vs. Missouri State, citing his strong relationship with new quarterbacks coach Joey Lynch and Wiggins' experience in the program.
"Hasn't been a crazy transition...I'm in the room with coach Wiggins and my quarterbacks coach, coach Lynch a lot this offseason. Just trying to pick their brains a little bit, let them pick mine. So we're on the when it comes to each and every weekend"
#texas #elko
Entering his second full starting season, Marcel Reed is on track to match his career-high 3,169 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in 2025, while his 12 interceptions were tied for the second most in the SEC; but after adding former Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Horton this offseason, Reed is well equipped to take more shots down the field given Horton's size advantage, especially in the red zone.
However, after offensive coordinator Collin Klein departed to take over as Kansas State's head coach, and instead of hiring outside the program, Mike Elko elevated wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins, who, despite his lack of play-calling experience, served as Klein's Co-OC over the last two seasons, and was former Alabama head coach Nick Saban's long-time WR coach and AHC before making his way to College Station.
On Wednesday, Austin, Texas-based reporter Cory Mose asked Marcel Reed how the transition from Collin Klein to Holmon Wiggins has been just over 40 days before Texas A&M's season-opener vs. Missouri State, citing his strong relationship with new quarterbacks coach Joey Lynch and Wiggins' experience in the program.
"Hasn't been a crazy transition...I'm in the room with coach Wiggins and my quarterbacks coach, coach Lynch a lot this offseason. Just trying to pick their brains a little bit, let them pick mine. So we're on the when it comes to each and every weekend"
#texas #elko
2 months ago
On Wednesday, Texas A&M coach Mike Elko, linebacker Daymion Sanford, safety Marcus Ratcliffe, and quarterback Marcel Reed spoke to the local and national media during SEC Media Days ahead of the 2026 season, which is now just a mere 43 days away as the Aggies will host Missouri State on Saturday, Sept. 5, to kick off the new campaign.
Elko's quote regarding the Aggies' lack of hardware, stating, "I show them our trophy case, and it's empty," when discussing what continues to motivate the roster after making the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history last season, received national attention but was widely misinterpreted, which is never surprising in today's social-media-driven landscape.
After passing for a career-high 3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season, Marcel Reed, entering his second full starting season, can always rely on Mike Elko to be honest about his need to improve after the Aggies' back-to-back losses to Texas and Miami in the first round of the CFP, which included four turnovers.
Against top-35 ranked defenses, Reed threw six touchdowns and eight interceptions, completing just 59% of his passes while throwing 19 touchdowns and four interceptions the rest of the way, which is truly the definition of a "high variance" quarterback with the potential to be much more consistent.
"The narrative around Marcel (Reed) has been pretty fair," Elko said. "At his highs, he can be an elite quarterback… We know if he can play at his best consistently, he has an opportunity to have a really, really high ceiling."
#reed #elko #season #quarterback
Elko's quote regarding the Aggies' lack of hardware, stating, "I show them our trophy case, and it's empty," when discussing what continues to motivate the roster after making the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history last season, received national attention but was widely misinterpreted, which is never surprising in today's social-media-driven landscape.
After passing for a career-high 3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season, Marcel Reed, entering his second full starting season, can always rely on Mike Elko to be honest about his need to improve after the Aggies' back-to-back losses to Texas and Miami in the first round of the CFP, which included four turnovers.
Against top-35 ranked defenses, Reed threw six touchdowns and eight interceptions, completing just 59% of his passes while throwing 19 touchdowns and four interceptions the rest of the way, which is truly the definition of a "high variance" quarterback with the potential to be much more consistent.
"The narrative around Marcel (Reed) has been pretty fair," Elko said. "At his highs, he can be an elite quarterback… We know if he can play at his best consistently, he has an opportunity to have a really, really high ceiling."
#reed #elko #season #quarterback
2 months ago
Texas A&M's appearance at SEC Media Days has come and gone, as third-year coach Mike Elko, alongside quarterback Marcel Reed, linebacker Daymion Sanford, and safety Marcus Ratcliffe, spoke to the media at length, covering nearly every topic imaginable related to the upcoming 2026 season's goals, while Sanford, who suffered a lower-body injury this spring, stated that he could return "soon."
While much of the focus geared towards Marcel Reed's goals of taking the "next step" in his development after his career year under center, the redshirt junior signal caller will be working with new offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins, who, despite his lack of play-calling experience, received an overwhelming vote of confidence from Mike Elko, who decided against an outside hire after Collin Klein departed to take over as Kansas State's head coach after two seasons.
Before taking over as Texas A&M's wide receivers coach ahead of the 2024 season, Wiggins served as former Alabama coach Nick Saban's WR coach and ******* istant head coach, while developing Heisman-winning wide receiver DeVonta Smith during the 2020 season and, most importantly, serving as Klein's Co-OC during the last two seasons.
On Wednesday, during Elko's Q&A portion of the event, the New Jersey native stayed true to his decision in elevating Wiggins, remaining highly confident that, with Marcel Reed back under center, paired with an elite wide receiver room and an equally talented running back rotation, Wiggins' transition should be much smoother than many expect.
"We ran a national search and talked to a lot of guys. One of the mistakes we make is that we ******* ume new is always better," Elko said. "He has a lot of experience at Texas A&M and in this conference. … I have a ton of confidence in who he is as a football coach."
#marcel #wide
While much of the focus geared towards Marcel Reed's goals of taking the "next step" in his development after his career year under center, the redshirt junior signal caller will be working with new offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins, who, despite his lack of play-calling experience, received an overwhelming vote of confidence from Mike Elko, who decided against an outside hire after Collin Klein departed to take over as Kansas State's head coach after two seasons.
Before taking over as Texas A&M's wide receivers coach ahead of the 2024 season, Wiggins served as former Alabama coach Nick Saban's WR coach and ******* istant head coach, while developing Heisman-winning wide receiver DeVonta Smith during the 2020 season and, most importantly, serving as Klein's Co-OC during the last two seasons.
On Wednesday, during Elko's Q&A portion of the event, the New Jersey native stayed true to his decision in elevating Wiggins, remaining highly confident that, with Marcel Reed back under center, paired with an elite wide receiver room and an equally talented running back rotation, Wiggins' transition should be much smoother than many expect.
"We ran a national search and talked to a lot of guys. One of the mistakes we make is that we ******* ume new is always better," Elko said. "He has a lot of experience at Texas A&M and in this conference. … I have a ton of confidence in who he is as a football coach."
#marcel #wide
2 months ago
Among the three Texas A&M players who accompanied third-year coach Mike Elko to SEC Media Days this week, senior linebacker Daymion Sanford spoke at length about his recovery after suffering a lower-body injury during the Maroon & White Game that required surgery over three months ago.
Alongside redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed and senior safety Marcus Ratcliffe, Sanford was not wearing a walking boot or any exterior protection, which, on the surface, looked like a great sign that the star defender has made significant progress and could return to the lineup earlier than previously expected.
However, when asked about a potential return date, Mike Elko remains unsure, while Sanford sounded much more optimistic, telling On3's Carter Karels that Texas A&M's training staff and doctors have aided in speeding up his recovery, which could result in returning to the field before the second half of the 2026 season.
"It's been going along good," he told Karels. "I've been working with the training staff; we've got the best training staff and doctors in the country, and they've been doing a lot with me. So I've been doing pretty good."
Last season, Sanford exploded on the scene after senior linebacker Scooby Williams dealt with injury issues, ranking fourth on the team in tackles with 57, paired with 3.5 sacks, an interception, three pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. A 2026 team captain, the Katy (TX) native is widely considered one of the best and most important players on the roster, while his mental toughness has been vital in getting through this latest hurdle.
#texas #i 've
Alongside redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed and senior safety Marcus Ratcliffe, Sanford was not wearing a walking boot or any exterior protection, which, on the surface, looked like a great sign that the star defender has made significant progress and could return to the lineup earlier than previously expected.
However, when asked about a potential return date, Mike Elko remains unsure, while Sanford sounded much more optimistic, telling On3's Carter Karels that Texas A&M's training staff and doctors have aided in speeding up his recovery, which could result in returning to the field before the second half of the 2026 season.
"It's been going along good," he told Karels. "I've been working with the training staff; we've got the best training staff and doctors in the country, and they've been doing a lot with me. So I've been doing pretty good."
Last season, Sanford exploded on the scene after senior linebacker Scooby Williams dealt with injury issues, ranking fourth on the team in tackles with 57, paired with 3.5 sacks, an interception, three pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. A 2026 team captain, the Katy (TX) native is widely considered one of the best and most important players on the roster, while his mental toughness has been vital in getting through this latest hurdle.
#texas #i 've
2 months ago
One of college football's most legendary head coaches gave much praise to Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko and his quarterback Marcel Reed in an interview with ESPN from the 2026 SEC Media Days.
Former Alabama head coach and current college football ******* yst Nick Saban said he really likes what the Aggies bring to the table this season, including the return of Reed as the signal-caller. Texas A&M achieved its first 11-0 start since 1992 and reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in Elko's second season at the helm, paving the way for a higher ceiling and much higher expectations.
According to Saban, Reed's a really good passer who has continued to get better each year. With a slew of talented and electric targets surrounding him, this could be the Nashville, Tennessee, native's chance to take his game to the next level.
It is undeniable that Saban is a believer in what Elko has built in College Station, after being ranked second in program history for best record through the first two seasons (19-7), just behind former Aggie head coach Kevin Sumlin. Texas A&M also tied a school record with 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Despite the loss of production, the Aggies hauled in the No. 4 transfer portal class, No. 7 recruiting class and retained guys like Reed, safety Marcus Ratcliffe and linebacker Daymion Sanford, all of which represented the Maroon and White at SEC Media Days on Wednesday.
#texas #Media
Former Alabama head coach and current college football ******* yst Nick Saban said he really likes what the Aggies bring to the table this season, including the return of Reed as the signal-caller. Texas A&M achieved its first 11-0 start since 1992 and reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in Elko's second season at the helm, paving the way for a higher ceiling and much higher expectations.
According to Saban, Reed's a really good passer who has continued to get better each year. With a slew of talented and electric targets surrounding him, this could be the Nashville, Tennessee, native's chance to take his game to the next level.
It is undeniable that Saban is a believer in what Elko has built in College Station, after being ranked second in program history for best record through the first two seasons (19-7), just behind former Aggie head coach Kevin Sumlin. Texas A&M also tied a school record with 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Despite the loss of production, the Aggies hauled in the No. 4 transfer portal class, No. 7 recruiting class and retained guys like Reed, safety Marcus Ratcliffe and linebacker Daymion Sanford, all of which represented the Maroon and White at SEC Media Days on Wednesday.
#texas #Media
2 months ago
There's been no shortage of news from SEC media days. Things continue with Texas A&M football's representatives taking the stand Wednesday to answer questions.
Aggies linebacker Daymion Sanford, safety Marcus Ratcliffe and quarterback Marcel Reed join head coach Mike Elko in Tampa Bay, Fla. A&M has improved every year under Elko, winning 11 games and making the College Football Playoff in 2025.
Alabama, Florida and Ole Miss representatives will also be available. Although the Crimson Tide is not the perennial powerhouse it was under Nick Saban, head coach Kalen DeBoer returns a talented roster led by wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams. The Gators and Rebels are both under new leadership, with the former headed by Jon Sumrall and the latter by Pete Golding.
Here are live updates from SEC media days.
#coach #texas #aggies
Aggies linebacker Daymion Sanford, safety Marcus Ratcliffe and quarterback Marcel Reed join head coach Mike Elko in Tampa Bay, Fla. A&M has improved every year under Elko, winning 11 games and making the College Football Playoff in 2025.
Alabama, Florida and Ole Miss representatives will also be available. Although the Crimson Tide is not the perennial powerhouse it was under Nick Saban, head coach Kalen DeBoer returns a talented roster led by wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams. The Gators and Rebels are both under new leadership, with the former headed by Jon Sumrall and the latter by Pete Golding.
Here are live updates from SEC media days.
#coach #texas #aggies
2 months ago
Texas A&M's No. 1-ranked 2027 recruiting class is all but wrapped up after third-year coach Mike Elko and first-year linebackers coach Travis Williams landed another key commitment from four-star linebacker Makahi Allen on Saturday afternoon, as the well-rounded defender joins five-star linebacker Kaden Henderson and rising three-star LB commit Aston Whiteside.
On paper, Texas A&M's future linebacker rotation is all but set with Henderson and Allen in the fold, though transfer Ray Coney and senior Daymion Sanford, who will likely miss the first half of the regular season after sustaining a lower-body injury, are set to depart after the 2026 season. Combined with the Aggies' four freshman linebackers, including Tamarion Watkins, whose 6'4" frame and physicality are highly intriguing.
Before landing Kaden Henderson, Texas A&M had not secured a five-star LB commit in over 20 years, while Makahi Allen's background as a former safety who is already an established off-ball linebacker, who has shown the ability to shoot gaps and cover the corners in coverage pairs well with Henderson's elite athleticism and NFL-level speed/quickness.
Other freshman linebackers to note include DaQuives Beck, Storm Miller, and Tank King, who will likely sit and develop during the 2026 season. Given the lack of depth behind Ray Coney and sophomore Noah Mikhail, DaQuives Beck is a name to watch during preseason practice. Every player listed is at least 6'0" or more, providing plenty of size to stop the run and face larger offensive linemen in pass rush situations.
Mike Elko's focus on situational awareness and football IQ forces every current and future player on the roster to adapt and not take their foot off the gas on any play, especially at linebacker, which, as many know, serves as the quarterback of the defense.
On paper, Texas A&M's future linebacker rotation is all but set with Henderson and Allen in the fold, though transfer Ray Coney and senior Daymion Sanford, who will likely miss the first half of the regular season after sustaining a lower-body injury, are set to depart after the 2026 season. Combined with the Aggies' four freshman linebackers, including Tamarion Watkins, whose 6'4" frame and physicality are highly intriguing.
Before landing Kaden Henderson, Texas A&M had not secured a five-star LB commit in over 20 years, while Makahi Allen's background as a former safety who is already an established off-ball linebacker, who has shown the ability to shoot gaps and cover the corners in coverage pairs well with Henderson's elite athleticism and NFL-level speed/quickness.
Other freshman linebackers to note include DaQuives Beck, Storm Miller, and Tank King, who will likely sit and develop during the 2026 season. Given the lack of depth behind Ray Coney and sophomore Noah Mikhail, DaQuives Beck is a name to watch during preseason practice. Every player listed is at least 6'0" or more, providing plenty of size to stop the run and face larger offensive linemen in pass rush situations.
Mike Elko's focus on situational awareness and football IQ forces every current and future player on the roster to adapt and not take their foot off the gas on any play, especially at linebacker, which, as many know, serves as the quarterback of the defense.
2 months ago
Texas A&M's No. 1-ranked recruiting class was further strengthened after coach Mike Elko and his staff landed five-star linebacker Kaeden Henderson, considered one of the top athletes in the cycle, and he will likely compete for a starting job during his first season. After landing four linebacker commitments in the 2026 recruiting class, Elko and new LB coach Travis Williams had their sights set on 2027 four-star linebacker Mikahi Allen.
One of the top-ranked players in New Jersey, Allen is among the more underrated defensive prospects with high NFL upside and pairs well with Henderson's speed and pass-rush potential. Coming down to Texas, South Carolina, and Texas A&M, the Aggies came out on top during his announcement on Saturday, landing their 26th commitment in the top-ranked 2027 cycle.
Consistent linebacker play has been an issue for Texas A&M going back to the Kevin Sumlin years, and while former three-year starter Taurean York was certainly productive, his lack of size was an issue, and heading into the 2026 season, only senior Daymion Sanford is listed below 6'0", as projected starters Ray Coney and Noah Mikhail are both 6'2" and over 220 pounds.
Mikahi Allen is currently listed at 6'2" and 235 pounds, and according to 247Sports' Director of Scouting, Andrew Ivins, the New Jersey-based prospect can simply do it all, providing Elko and Williams another versatile athlete who will compete for a starting role in his second season.
"Can do a little bit of everything as he can attack the corner while playing on the ball, shoot gaps when positioned off the ball and impact passing lanes in coverage."
One of the top-ranked players in New Jersey, Allen is among the more underrated defensive prospects with high NFL upside and pairs well with Henderson's speed and pass-rush potential. Coming down to Texas, South Carolina, and Texas A&M, the Aggies came out on top during his announcement on Saturday, landing their 26th commitment in the top-ranked 2027 cycle.
Consistent linebacker play has been an issue for Texas A&M going back to the Kevin Sumlin years, and while former three-year starter Taurean York was certainly productive, his lack of size was an issue, and heading into the 2026 season, only senior Daymion Sanford is listed below 6'0", as projected starters Ray Coney and Noah Mikhail are both 6'2" and over 220 pounds.
Mikahi Allen is currently listed at 6'2" and 235 pounds, and according to 247Sports' Director of Scouting, Andrew Ivins, the New Jersey-based prospect can simply do it all, providing Elko and Williams another versatile athlete who will compete for a starting role in his second season.
"Can do a little bit of everything as he can attack the corner while playing on the ball, shoot gaps when positioned off the ball and impact passing lanes in coverage."
