Texas A&M might have lost a record 10 players to the 2026 NFL Draft, including four starting offensive linemen, but don't count the Aggies out just yet. Third-year head coach Mike Elko and his staff have been busy reloading, bringing in 17 transfers and 26 freshmen, and it's the offensive line depth that has one CFB analyst buzzing about a potential national title run.
Leading the charge is redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed, now in his second full season as starter. He'll have a big new target in 6'4" Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton, who adds much-needed size to an already solid receiver room. On defense, new coordinator Lyle Hemphill has plenty of weapons, even after losing unanimous All-American edge rusher Cashius Howell. Northwestern transfer Anto Saka has looked dominant as the big defensive end, while Colorado transfer Tawfiq Byard bolsters a deep safety group.
But the real story is up front. After adding four SEC starting offensive linemen from the transfer portal, Elko and O-line coach Adam Cushing believe they have nine starter-caliber players. That kind of depth is rare and could be a game-changer, allowing for fresh legs all season long. During the spring game, both starting lines looked sharp, especially in the run game, opening huge holes for sophomore running back Jamarion Morrow.
CFP analyst Josh Pate isn't just focused on Reed taking the next step—he's pointing to the trenches as the key. After talking with A&M staff this spring, Pate believes this deep offensive line could be the difference between just making the playoff and winning it all. With size, experience, and rotation-ready talent, the Aggies might have the foundation for a championship run.
