Texas A&M football has been aggressive in the transfer portal. Which one will have the most impact next season?
Texas A&M Football: Aggressive Moves in the Transfer Portal and the Player Who Will Have the Most Impact Next Season
The world of college football has seen a dramatic shift over the past few years, with the transfer portal emerging as one of the most powerful tools for teams to reshape their rosters. Programs are no longer just relying on recruiting high school talent; they’re tapping into the transfer portal to fill immediate needs and boost their chances of competing at the highest level. One program that has been particularly aggressive in the transfer portal is Texas A&M University, a school known for its passion for football and deep commitment to building a championship-caliber team.
Over the last few seasons, Texas A&M has made headlines for its impressive recruiting classes, but the reality of college football means that rosters must be dynamic, and finding immediate contributors is crucial. With the Aggies looking to bounce back after a challenging season, their moves in the transfer portal will be pivotal in determining their trajectory for the 2025 season. Among the many transfers that have joined the team, there’s one player whose potential could make the most significant impact next season: quarterback Max Johnson.
In this article, we will explore the significance of the transfer portal for Texas A&M, examine the players they’ve brought in through the portal, and dive deep into why Max Johnson is poised to be the player who will have the most significant impact on the team in the 2025 season.
Texas A&M’s Aggressive Approach to the Transfer Portal
The transfer portal has become an essential aspect of college football, and Texas A&M has used it to its advantage over the last few seasons. The Aggies’ strategy has been clear: fill immediate needs, strengthen weak spots on the roster, and provide depth in key areas. With head coach Jimbo Fisher at the helm, Texas A&M has consistently been aggressive in using the portal to bolster their squad and ensure they are ready for the grueling SEC schedule.
The transfer portal allows for immediate eligibility, which is a key advantage for programs that are looking to make quick improvements. It also provides a unique opportunity to add experienced players who can contribute right away, rather than waiting for freshmen or inexperienced players to develop.
In the 2024-2025 offseason, Texas A&M made several moves in the transfer portal, adding talent to positions that had been identified as areas of need. From defensive reinforcements to offensive skill players, the Aggies’ coaching staff has carefully scouted and selected players who could have an immediate impact.
The Importance of the Quarterback Position
One of the most significant areas of focus for Texas A&M in the transfer portal has been the quarterback position. The quarterback is the leader on the field, the face of the offense, and often the most important position on a football team. After a turbulent season at the position, Texas A&M was in desperate need of a quarterback who could stabilize the offense and provide the leadership necessary for success.
The Aggies struggled at quarterback in 2024, with inconsistent play, injuries, and a lack of continuity contributing to their offensive woes. The need for a reliable and experienced quarterback was evident, and Texas A&M’s decision to pursue a transfer quarterback was a crucial step in their efforts to return to the upper echelon of the SEC.
Max Johnson: The Transfer Quarterback Who Could Lead Texas A&M
Enter Max Johnson, a graduate transfer from LSU who has the experience, skill set, and leadership qualities to make an immediate impact in College Station. Johnson, who spent the previous years at LSU, brings with him a wealth of experience as a starting quarterback in the SEC. With his ability to throw the ball accurately, read defenses, and manage games, Johnson is poised to be the player who will have the most significant impact on Texas A&M football next season.
Experience and Proven Success
Max Johnson isn’t a newcomer to the pressures of playing in the SEC. As the starting quarterback for LSU in 2021 and 2022, Johnson played in one of the most competitive conferences in the country, facing off against top-tier defenses week in and week out. His experience playing in high-pressure situations will be invaluable to Texas A&M, a program that is looking to get back into the national conversation.
Johnson’s time at LSU was marked by impressive performances, particularly in critical moments. He helped lead LSU to an SEC Championship Game appearance in 2021 and played in several high-profile games, including contests against Alabama, Florida, and Texas A&M. In 2022, despite LSU’s up-and-down season, Johnson continued to show resilience and skill, throwing for over 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns. His ability to perform in big games, especially in front of hostile crowds, will be an asset for Texas A&M as they face some of the toughest teams in the country.
The Fit in Jimbo Fisher’s System
Max Johnson’s skill set also aligns well with head coach Jimbo Fisher’s offensive system. Fisher is known for his pro-style offense, which relies on a balanced attack with a strong emphasis on the passing game. Johnson, a quarterback with solid fundamentals, quick decision-making, and the ability to throw both short and deep passes, is an ideal fit for this offensive scheme.
What sets Johnson apart is his ability to read defenses and make quick adjustments. Fisher’s offense is complex, requiring the quarterback to make rapid decisions and read the defense on the fly. Johnson has shown throughout his career that he has the ability to process information quickly and execute under pressure. His composure in the pocket, combined with his arm strength and accuracy, will allow him to thrive in Fisher’s system.
Another key aspect of Johnson’s game that fits well with Fisher’s approach is his ability to extend plays. While not known for his elite running ability, Johnson is mobile enough to avoid sacks and create opportunities when plays break down. His mobility will give Texas A&M an added dimension, especially in high-pressure situations where the offensive line may struggle.
Leadership and Poise
Leadership is one of the most important qualities a quarterback can have, and Max Johnson has demonstrated this throughout his college career. In addition to his physical talents, Johnson is known for his ability to lead and inspire his teammates. This is particularly important for Texas A&M, a program that is in the midst of a rebuild and looking to establish a strong culture of discipline and accountability.
Johnson’s leadership was evident during his time at LSU, where he was entrusted with managing a high-powered offense in tough SEC environments. His poise under pressure, combined with his experience in big games, will be essential for a Texas A&M team that will be facing tough road games and challenging opponents in 2025. As a transfer, Johnson has the opportunity to provide immediate leadership, both in the huddle and in the locker room, helping to guide the team through the ups and downs of the season.
Max Johnson’s Impact on the Team
Max Johnson’s arrival at Texas A&M brings a sense of stability to the quarterback position, which had been a major issue for the Aggies in recent years. With Johnson under center, the Aggies will have a proven commodity at the most important position on the field, something they have been lacking in recent seasons. This stability will not only benefit the offense but also the defense and special teams, as it allows the entire team to focus on their respective roles without the distraction of quarterback controversies.
In addition to his leadership, Johnson’s presence will have a trickle-down effect on the rest of the offense. His experience and poise will allow him to develop chemistry with the Aggies’ wide receivers, running backs, and offensive line. Texas A&M has a talented group of skill players, and Johnson’s ability to distribute the ball effectively will maximize their potential.
The Aggies’ offense in 2025 is expected to be more balanced and explosive, and Johnson’s experience as a dual-threat quarterback will be crucial in making that happen. His ability to push the ball downfield will help open up the running game, giving Texas A&M the ability to execute a more dynamic offensive attack. This balance will be essential in competing in the SEC, where defenses are fast, physical, and relentless.
The Road Ahead: High Expectations for 2025
With Max Johnson at the helm, expectations are high for Texas A&M in 2025. The Aggies will enter the season with one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the SEC, and Johnson’s leadership will be instrumental in determining the team’s success. There are plenty of challenges ahead, including a tough schedule, a competitive SEC, and the need to establish consistency across all phases of the game. However, with Johnson leading the offense, Texas A&M will be a team to watch.
The addition of Max Johnson could be the catalyst the Aggies need to make a significant jump in the SEC standings. With the quarterback position solidified, Texas A&M will have the chance to focus on improving other areas of the team, including the offensive line, defensive play, and special teams.
