Texas A&M placed 13th in The Athletic’s preseason rankings as Elko rebuilds for SEC campaign
Head coach Mike Elko has implemented major staff and personnel changes to replace talent lost to the NFL Draft, with quarterback Marcel Reed’s consistency cited as a key factor for the 2026 season.
Texas A&M has been ranked 13th in The Athletic’s preseason Top 25 college football rankings, a placement that underscores the challenges facing the program as it enters its third season under head coach Mike Elko. The ranking, published by writer Stewart Mandel, follows the Aggies’ historic first appearance in the College Football Playoff, where they were eliminated in the first round by Miami.
The selection process for the 2026 season has been defined by significant roster turnover, with ten players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including seven in the first three rounds. To address this loss of talent, Elko and his staff recruited 17 players via the transfer portal. This group includes four offensive linemen with SEC starting experience, aimed at replacing the four starters lost from the offensive line unit.
Staff adjustments were made immediately following the postseason. With offensive coordinator Collin Klein departing for Kansas State, wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins has been promoted to the role. Additionally, defensive assistant Lyle Hemphill has been appointed as the new defensive coordinator. The Athletic noted that the success of the new offensive line unit, particularly its ability to gel with Wiggins’ offence, is a critical determinant for the season outlook.
Quarterback Marcel Reed, in his third season and second as a full-time starter, is identified as the most important returning player. The ranking highlights the need for Reed to improve his consistency, decision-making, and improvisation. The article suggests that Reed taking the next step, combined with the development of the offensive line, will dictate how well the offence operates.
While the offence faces scrutiny, the defence is viewed as a potential strength, with the secondary noted for its elite depth. Since the start of the offseason, Texas A&M has appeared in various preseason polls ranging from eighth to 11th, but The Athletic’s placement at 13th reflects the tough schedule the Aggies will face within the SEC.
