Texas A&M football’s current position following significant NFL Draft selections
Texas A&M Football’s Current Position Following Significant NFL Draft Selections
As Texas A&M football looks to move forward in the ever-competitive world of college football, the impact of its players on the NFL Draft continues to be a key marker of the program’s development and reputation. The 2024 NFL Draft featured several Aggies with significant draft buzz, signaling a new chapter for Texas A&M football in terms of talent production, player development, and recruiting potential. As the Aggies continue to build on their past successes, their current position is greatly influenced by how these players fare in the professional ranks.
The NFL Draft serves as one of the best indicators of a program’s long-term success. When a college team has players selected in the draft, particularly in high rounds, it reinforces the team’s credibility as a breeding ground for NFL-ready talent. For Texas A&M, the selections made in the 2024 NFL Draft have put the program in an enviable position, both in terms of its historical standing and its prospects for the future.
In this article, we will examine Texas A&M’s current position after several of their players were drafted into the NFL in 2024, evaluate the importance of these draft picks, and analyze how the program’s future may be impacted by their selections.
NFL Draft Overview for Texas A&M: A Strong Showing in 2024
The 2024 NFL Draft saw a handful of Texas A&M players taken off the board, with some notable selections from both the offense and defense. The Aggies’ recruiting pipeline continues to impress as high-caliber players get the chance to showcase their talents on the biggest stage. The combination of elite prospects and strong team performance under head coach Jimbo Fisher positioned Texas A&M to make its mark in the draft.
Here are some of the notable Aggies taken in the 2024 NFL Draft:
- Devon Achane (RB) – 2nd Round, Miami Dolphins
One of the most anticipated draft prospects for Texas A&M was Devon Achane, who declared for the draft following an explosive career as the team’s running back. Achane’s performance over the last few seasons highlighted his ability to be a dual-threat in both the running game and as a receiving back. In his final season with the Aggies, he rushed for over 1,300 yards and scored 14 touchdowns, earning All-SEC honors. His speed, agility, and vision were standout features of his game, making him a highly coveted prospect.
Achane’s selection in the 2nd round by the Miami Dolphins was a major highlight for Texas A&M, confirming that the program was able to develop a top-tier running back who would make an immediate impact at the professional level. His draft selection bolsters the Aggies’ reputation as a breeding ground for elite running back talent.
- Antonio Johnson (DB) – 3rd Round, Jacksonville Jaguars
Antonio Johnson, a standout defensive back for Texas A&M, was another key player drafted in 2024. Known for his versatility and ability to cover ground quickly, Johnson was one of the top safeties in the country and played a pivotal role in the Aggies’ defensive scheme. Over his career at Texas A&M, Johnson earned recognition for his strong tackling ability, pass coverage skills, and leadership in the secondary.
His selection in the 3rd round by the Jacksonville Jaguars showcased the Aggies’ ability to produce top-tier defensive talent. As a player who can contribute both in the box and in coverage, Johnson will be a valuable asset to the Jaguars’ secondary. His development under Jimbo Fisher’s defense proves that the Aggies continue to foster NFL-caliber talent on both sides of the ball.
- Layden Robinson (OG) – 4th Round, Pittsburgh Steelers
Offensive line play is one of the key elements of success in college football, and Texas A&M’s Layden Robinson was an integral part of the Aggies’ offensive line over the past few years. Known for his strength and technical proficiency, Robinson became a key fixture in the Aggies’ offensive line, which helped protect the quarterback and create running lanes for their backfield.
Robinson’s selection in the 4th round by the Pittsburgh Steelers signals the Aggies’ continued success in developing NFL-ready offensive linemen. Robinson will bring both toughness and consistency to Pittsburgh’s line, and his development in college football under the guidance of Jimbo Fisher will undoubtedly benefit him at the professional level.
- Jalen Wydermyer (TE) – 5th Round, Las Vegas Raiders
Jalen Wydermyer, another key contributor for Texas A&M, was drafted in the 5th round by the Las Vegas Raiders. Wydermyer had a stellar college career at tight end, showing off his ability to be a reliable target in the passing game while also demonstrating his blocking skills in the run game. Though Wydermyer’s draft stock dipped after an inconsistent 2023 season, he was still seen as a talented player with a high ceiling at the NFL level.
His selection represents the Aggies’ continued ability to produce impactful offensive players. Wydermyer’s combination of size, athleticism, and experience makes him a valuable pick for the Raiders, who will look to use him as both a pass catcher and a blocker in their offensive scheme.
Impact of the 2024 NFL Draft Selections on Texas A&M Football’s Current Position
The 2024 NFL Draft selections of Devon Achane, Antonio Johnson, Layden Robinson, and Jalen Wydermyer represent a turning point for Texas A&M football as the program has successfully placed multiple players into key positions in the NFL. These selections provide several benefits and insights into the current position of the Aggies’ program:
1. Recruiting Momentum
The successful draft of players from Texas A&M gives the program significant recruiting momentum moving forward. The Aggies can now point to these high-profile draft selections as evidence of their ability to develop NFL talent. High school recruits and transfer portal players will see this as a sign that Texas A&M is a legitimate pathway to the NFL. This will only help the program attract top-tier talent, particularly in positions like running back, defensive back, offensive line, and tight end, where the Aggies have produced strong prospects.
Texas A&M has already established itself as one of the top recruiters in the SEC, and these NFL Draft selections will bolster their pitch to recruits, making it clear that players can thrive and develop at Texas A&M while still achieving their NFL dreams.
2. Player Development and NFL Credibility
The 2024 NFL Draft success is a clear indicator that Texas A&M football continues to be one of the top programs in the nation in terms of player development. The ability to prepare players for the NFL—whether it be through technical training, strength and conditioning, or providing high-level competition—demonstrates that the Aggies’ coaching staff is capable of preparing players to perform at the next level.
As the program continues to build on this foundation, it becomes an increasingly attractive destination for high school prospects who want to be developed and ultimately reach the NFL.
3. Long-Term Success and Competitive Status in the SEC
The presence of multiple players from Texas A&M in the NFL Draft is a sign that the program is on the right path. While the Aggies have not yet reached the heights of SEC dominance, these draft picks demonstrate that the team has the talent to compete with the best programs in the conference. As the Aggies continue to recruit and develop future stars, their stock within the SEC rises, signaling that Texas A&M is more than capable of contending with powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.
With these players now in the NFL, the Aggies have the necessary blueprint for success moving forward: a combination of elite recruiting, strong player development, and the ability to place players in professional football.
4. Increased National Recognition
The more players Texas A&M has drafted into the NFL, the more national recognition the program receives. These high-profile draft selections shine a spotlight on the Aggies’ program, raising its stature among both fans and analysts. Texas A&M is viewed not only as a competitive force in the SEC, but also as an NFL pipeline that can produce the next generation of football stars.
This increased recognition will continue to help elevate the program’s reputation, both within the conference and on the national stage, and may even lead to higher rankings and more successful seasons in the future.
