How the top five-rated commitments in Texas A&M football history turned out
Recruiting is one of the most critical aspects of any college football program, and for Texas A&M, recruiting success has been a central factor in its pursuit of championships and national prominence. Over the years, Texas A&M has landed some of the top-rated commitments in college football, with these players becoming central figures in the program’s efforts to build a championship-caliber team. However, not all highly-rated commitments turn out to be the stars they were projected to be, and not all highly-rated players necessarily achieve the level of success anticipated at the time of their recruitment.
This article takes a closer look at the top five-rated commitments in Texas A&M football history, examining how each player turned out in their college careers, what impact they had on the program, and whether or not they lived up to their billing as some of the highest-rated recruits to ever commit to the Aggies.
1. Reuben Foster (2013) – Five-Star Linebacker
One of the most highly anticipated recruits in Texas A&M football history, Reuben Foster was a five-star linebacker prospect out of Auburn, Alabama, in the class of 2013. Foster was considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the country, and his commitment to Texas A&M was a major coup for head coach Kevin Sumlin’s staff. The Aggies beat out powerhouse programs like Auburn, Alabama, and others to land Foster, who was expected to be an immediate impact player on the defensive side of the ball.
Career Outcome:
While Foster did ultimately sign with Texas A&M, his time in College Station was short-lived. He initially enrolled at Texas A&M, but things quickly took a turn. Foster encountered issues that led to his departure from the program, ultimately transferring to Alabama, where he would go on to have an outstanding career. At Alabama, Foster became one of the best linebackers in college football, earning All-American honors and leading the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 2015.
Foster’s time at Texas A&M, although brief, is a reminder of how recruiting can sometimes be unpredictable. Despite being one of the top-rated players in the country, Foster’s commitment didn’t result in the expected long-term impact for the Aggies. However, his success at Alabama only highlights the potential that was there all along, even if it wasn’t realized at A&M.
2. Myles Garrett (2014) – Five-Star Defensive End
The commitment of Myles Garrett in the 2014 recruiting cycle was nothing short of monumental for Texas A&M football. Garrett, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound defensive end out of Arlington, Texas, was ranked as the number one overall recruit in the country, and his commitment to Texas A&M was a program-defining moment. He was widely considered one of the most talented players in the 2014 class, and his combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him a future NFL star in the making.
Career Outcome:
Myles Garrett’s career at Texas A&M exceeded the high expectations set for him. Garrett was an immediate contributor for the Aggies and quickly became one of the best pass rushers in college football. Over the course of his three seasons in College Station, Garrett recorded 31 sacks and 47 tackles for loss, cementing his place as one of the most dominant defensive players in the SEC.
Garrett’s success at Texas A&M was a key factor in the Aggies’ defensive turnaround during his time on the team. His ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and generate pressure in the backfield was a game-changer for the Aggies’ defense.
After declaring for the NFL Draft following the 2017 season, Garrett was selected with the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. In the NFL, Garrett has lived up to his billing as a generational pass rusher, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as one of the most feared defensive players in the league. Garrett’s commitment to Texas A&M helped elevate the program to new heights, and his success in the NFL serves as a testament to his exceptional talent.
3. Kyler Murray (2015) – Five-Star Quarterback
Perhaps one of the most intriguing stories in Texas A&M’s recruiting history is Kyler Murray’s commitment in the 2015 class. Murray, a five-star quarterback from Allen, Texas, was one of the most sought-after recruits in the country. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability made him a top target for programs across the nation, and his commitment to Texas A&M was seen as a potential game-changer for the Aggies’ offense.
Career Outcome:
Murray’s time at Texas A&M was tumultuous and brief. After enrolling in 2015, Murray was expected to compete for the starting quarterback job, but things did not go as planned. In his freshman year, Murray was used sparingly, and after the 2015 season, he decided to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. His transfer marked the end of his time at Texas A&M, and while his departure was disappointing for the Aggies, it opened the door for future opportunities in Norman, Oklahoma.
At Oklahoma, Murray’s career took off. He developed into one of the best quarterbacks in college football, winning the 2018 Heisman Trophy and leading the Sooners to the College Football Playoff. After declaring for the 2019 NFL Draft, Murray was selected as the first overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals, where he has continued to excel in the NFL.
Murray’s story is a mixed one for Texas A&M. While he did not have a lasting impact in College Station, his success at Oklahoma and in the NFL has proven that his talent was undeniable. For Aggies fans, it’s a reminder that not all highly-rated recruits will stay at a program, but those who do often have the potential to succeed elsewhere.
4. Vernon Jackson (2016) – Four-Star Wide Receiver
Vernon Jackson was one of the top-rated wide receiver prospects in the 2016 class, committing to Texas A&M after a standout high school career in the Houston area. Jackson was a highly skilled and versatile player who was expected to make an immediate impact in the Aggies’ offense. As a four-star recruit, he brought tremendous potential to the position, and Texas A&M was eager to utilize his playmaking abilities.
Career Outcome:
Jackson’s time at Texas A&M was plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. While he showed flashes of his talent, his inability to stay healthy and adjust to the demands of college football kept him from reaching his full potential. Despite his high rating as a recruit, Jackson never truly became a star at Texas A&M. He finished his career with modest production and did not make the same impact as some of his fellow highly-rated teammates.
After leaving Texas A&M, Jackson’s football career did not continue at the professional level, and his story serves as a reminder that even highly-rated recruits can sometimes struggle to meet expectations. Injuries, the development of other players, and changes in coaching staff can all impact a player’s trajectory, and Jackson’s career is an example of how difficult it can be to succeed at the highest levels of college football.
5. DeMarvin Leal (2019) – Five-Star Defensive Line
Another top-rated commitment for Texas A&M came in 2019 when DeMarvin Leal, a five-star defensive lineman from San Antonio, Texas, pledged to the Aggies. Leal was a highly coveted recruit due to his size, athleticism, and versatility. As a player who could line up both as a defensive end and a defensive tackle, Leal’s talent was undeniable, and many believed he had the potential to be an All-American and a future first-round NFL Draft pick.
Career Outcome:
Leal lived up to his five-star billing at Texas A&M, establishing himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the SEC. Over the course of his three seasons with the Aggies, Leal recorded 29 tackles for loss and 13 sacks, and his ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line made him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. Leal’s versatility and leadership on defense were crucial to Texas A&M’s success during his time in College Station, as he was a key contributor to the Aggies’ strong defense.
After declaring for the 2022 NFL Draft, Leal was selected in the second round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he has continued to show promise as a dynamic defensive lineman. Leal’s career trajectory has shown that his five-star rating was justified, as he has transitioned smoothly from college to the NFL.
