Position breakdown for Texas A&M football in the spring: QB might lead A&M in 2025

As Texas A&M football enters its 2025 spring practice under head coach Mike Elko, one of the most intriguing and highly anticipated storylines is the performance and development of the quarterback position. This position has historically been a key factor in determining the Aggies’ success, and with the addition of new talent, strategic changes, and a shifting landscape in the SEC, the quarterback position might just become the key to A&M’s success in 2025. As Elko continues to reshape the program and build on the momentum gained from his first few seasons, the Aggies will need strong quarterback play to meet their high expectations.

In this breakdown, we will examine the quarterback position, analyzing the talent available, the development of potential starters, and how the Aggies’ signal-callers could guide Texas A&M to success in 2025. Additionally, we will assess the broader context of the team’s offensive structure, including key supporting positions, and how this all factors into the Aggies’ push for an SEC title and a potential playoff spot.

Quarterback: The Key to Unlocking Texas A&M’s Potential

At the heart of any successful college football team is the quarterback. For Texas A&M, the quarterback battle heading into the 2025 season is expected to be one of the most closely watched aspects of their spring practice. With a combination of experienced veterans, talented underclassmen, and a few newcomers, the Aggies’ quarterback room has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, setting the stage for a highly competitive spring.

The Current Depth Chart:

As the Aggies head into spring ball, Mike Elko has made it clear that the quarterback position will be one of the most open and contested spots on the roster. Here’s a look at the main contenders for the starting quarterback position heading into the spring:

1. Jalen Henderson (Senior)
   The UCLA transfer, Jalen Henderson, is perhaps the most experienced quarterback on the roster and is expected to be one of the primary contenders for the starting job in 2025. Henderson comes to Texas A&M with a strong background in both passing and athleticism, showing promise as a dual-threat quarterback. His ability to extend plays with his legs while also maintaining accuracy in the passing game could give him an edge over other candidates. Henderson’s familiarity with high-pressure situations in the Pac-12 should serve him well in the SEC—a conference that demands both physicality and mental toughness from its quarterbacks. During his time at UCLA, Henderson showed flashes of brilliance, but he also had moments of inconsistency. If he can harness his full potential and develop a better sense of decision-making under Elko’s guidance, he could be the player who leads the Aggies’ offense in 2025.
2. Max Johnson (Senior)
   A seasoned veteran, Max Johnson, the former LSU quarterback, has spent the last few seasons bouncing between starting and backup roles. Johnson has plenty of experience at the highest levels of college football and understands the demands of SEC play. His time at LSU and his strong arm give him the ability to make big plays downfield. Johnson has shown he can be effective in both traditional pro-style offenses and spread systems, and his leadership abilities will be critical as Texas A&M looks to make a deep run in 2025. However, like Henderson, he has had bouts of inconsistency and struggled to stay healthy in past seasons. If Johnson can remain injury-free and take the next step in terms of his decision-making, he might have a legitimate shot at starting for the Aggies.
3. Connor Weigman (Sophomore)
   One of the most highly touted quarterbacks in recent recruiting classes, Connor Weigman has shown flashes of potential in limited action. After an impressive high school career, Weigman was considered a top-tier prospect, and his skill set suggests that he has the tools to be a future star for Texas A&M. He has an impressive arm strength, quick release, and solid decision-making ability that could give him an edge in Elko’s offense. However, Weigman will need to improve his pocket presence and consistency with accuracy before he can secure the starting role. That said, given his pedigree and the potential for growth, many expect Weigman to have a breakout year in 2025, and spring practice will provide the perfect opportunity for him to prove himself.
4. Jalen Milroe (Freshman)
   Coming into Texas A&M as a freshman, Jalen Milroe brings a level of athleticism and talent that could make him an exciting option down the road. Milroe is a dual-threat quarterback with incredible speed and agility, which could allow him to add a new dynamic to the Aggies’ offense. While Milroe may not be the favorite to start immediately, his skills could be leveraged in specific situations, particularly in short-yardage or read-option scenarios. His development over the next few years could prove crucial to Texas A&M’s long-term success, and he may be one to watch for future seasons.

Key Attributes for a 2025 Starting Quarterback

Given the competitive nature of the quarterback battle, it’s essential to examine the qualities that the Aggies’ coaching staff and Elko will look for in a starting quarterback for 2025. A starting quarterback at Texas A&M must possess a combination of leadership, physical skills, and mental toughness to survive in the pressure cooker of the SEC.

1. Decision-Making and Poise
   The ability to read defenses and make the right decisions in high-pressure situations will be crucial for whichever quarterback claims the starting job. Texas A&M needs a quarterback who can process information quickly and make sound decisions with the ball, particularly when facing elite defenses. A quarterback who can remain calm under pressure and limit turnovers will be essential to the Aggies’ success.
2. Arm Strength and Accuracy
   A powerful arm is essential in the SEC, where defenses are fast and physical. However, equally important is accuracy—the ability to hit receivers in stride and place the ball in the right spots. Texas A&M’s offense will rely on the quarterback’s ability to make deep throws and stretch defenses while maintaining accuracy on shorter, timing-based routes.
3. Mobility
   The ability to extend plays with the legs is an asset in today’s game, and while Texas A&M may not run a true read-option offense, having a quarterback who can escape pressure and make plays with their feet is a major advantage. Whether scrambling to pick up a first down or extending a play to find a wide receiver downfield, mobility is an essential quality for a quarterback in Elko’s system.
4. Leadership and Confidence
   A quarterback must also be the emotional leader of the team. A quarterback’s ability to rally the offense, remain confident through adversity, and communicate effectively with teammates is vital. A strong, confident leader can keep the team calm and focused, especially during the most challenging moments in games.

The Offense Around the Quarterback

While much of the focus in spring practice will be on the quarterback competition, it’s important to consider how the offensive system around the quarterback will evolve. Texas A&M’s offensive line is a major strength, and it’s crucial that the quarterback has time to operate within the pocket. With returning players like Layden Robinson and Jared Sneed, the Aggies’ offensive line should provide a solid foundation for whichever quarterback takes the reins.

In addition to the offensive line, the running back unit is poised to be a key asset in 2025. Players like Amari Daniels and Le’Veon Moss bring explosiveness to the backfield, and their ability to control the clock will be invaluable in setting up play-action opportunities for the quarterback. A strong running game will allow the quarterback to manage games more effectively, relying on short passes and high-percentage throws rather than always needing to take deep shots downfield.

Wide receiver will also be a position to watch during spring practice. The Aggies need players who can create separation and make plays after the catch. With talent like Evan Stewart, who is emerging as one of the top playmakers on the roster, the quarterback will need to develop chemistry with his wideouts and find ways to get the ball into their hands quickly and efficiently.

A Spring to Remember: The Aggies’ Outlook for 2025

Spring practice for the 2025 Texas A&M Aggies is more than just a series of practices—it’s a chance for the team to lay the foundation for what could be a breakout year. The quarterback position will undoubtedly be the most talked-about storyline, but the competition among other position groups will also play a pivotal role in the team’s overall development.

With a dynamic combination of veterans and newcomers, the Aggies are in a prime position to compete at a high level in the SEC and on the national stage. The spring practices will be crucial for identifying the starting quarterback, building team chemistry, and solidifying offensive and defensive strategies heading into the fall.

Texas A&M is poised for a big year in 2025, and if the quarterback position can reach its potential—whether it’s with Jalen Henderson, Max Johnson, Connor Weigman, or another candidate—the Aggies could very well find themselves in the thick of the SEC title race and competing for a College Football Playoff berth. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on this crucial position as the Aggies look to take the next step under Mike Elko.