Two Aggies from Texas A&M were chosen in the latest four-round NFL mock draft.
Two Aggies from Texas A&M Selected in Latest Four-Round NFL Mock Draft
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is shining brightly on Texas A&M’s football program. With a rich history of producing top-tier talent, the Aggies have long been a staple in the NFL Draft landscape. This year is no different, as two standout players from Texas A&M were chosen in the latest four-round NFL mock draft. These selections are a testament to the strong development pipeline within the Aggies’ football program, showcasing the talent and potential of their key players. As the NFL Combine, pro days, and team interviews unfold, the attention on Texas A&M’s prospects will only continue to grow.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the two Texas A&M players selected in the latest mock draft, analyzing their skills, impact at Texas A&M, and potential in the professional ranks. Both players have the ability to make a significant impact at the next level, and their selections in this mock draft offer a preview of what’s to come as they aim to achieve their NFL dreams.
1. Ainias Smith – Wide Receiver / Return Specialist
Selected: Round 2, Pick 40
Ainias Smith, a dynamic wide receiver and return specialist, has been one of the most versatile and electrifying players at Texas A&M in recent years. As one of the best all-around athletes in college football, Smith’s ability to impact the game in multiple areas has helped the Aggies immensely. Whether he’s catching passes, returning kicks, or playing a crucial role in the return game, Smith has demonstrated his exceptional skill set, which has made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.
Strengths
Smith is a versatile player capable of playing multiple positions on offense, most notably wide receiver and running back. His quickness and agility make him a nightmare for defenders, particularly in space, where he can turn a short pass or handoff into a big play. Additionally, Smith’s ability to return both punts and kickoffs sets him apart from many other wide receiver prospects, giving him additional value as a special teams contributor.
One of Smith’s most impressive qualities is his explosiveness. He has excellent top-end speed, and once he finds a seam, he can quickly accelerate into the open field. His change-of-direction ability is elite, which is crucial for a player who often works in space. This makes him a perfect fit for offenses that emphasize yards after the catch and playmaking ability. NFL teams are always on the lookout for players who can make an impact on special teams while also contributing as playmakers on offense, and Smith fits that mold perfectly.
Impact at Texas A&M
Throughout his time at Texas A&M, Smith has been one of the most reliable playmakers on the team. Over his career, he has accumulated over 2,000 receiving yards and numerous touchdowns, showing his ability to be a key contributor in a high-powered offense. Whether it was in the slot, on the outside, or as a running back, Smith has consistently been used in creative ways by the Aggies’ coaching staff.
Smith’s ability to make defenders miss and turn broken plays into explosive gains has made him a focal point of the Aggies’ offensive scheme. His production as both a receiver and returner has made him one of the most dangerous players in the SEC. His knack for getting open, especially on short routes, allows his quarterbacks to rely on him as a safety valve.
Additionally, Smith has shown his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, making key plays when the game is on the line. Whether it’s scoring a touchdown in a critical moment or making a crucial catch, Smith’s football IQ and composure under pressure will serve him well at the next level.
NFL Projection
As a player with exceptional athleticism and versatility, Smith’s skill set translates well to the NFL. His ability to impact games in a variety of ways, both as a wide receiver and return specialist, gives him significant value for any team looking to add a dynamic weapon to their roster. His speed and agility will be an asset to NFL offenses looking for a player who can make plays out of the backfield or in the slot.
Smith is projected to be selected in the second round of the NFL Draft, with teams likely valuing his versatility and playmaking ability. His contributions on special teams will be another factor in his favor, as many NFL teams are looking for players who can contribute immediately in multiple areas. If he continues to improve his route running and sharpens his skills in the offseason, Smith has the potential to become a major weapon at the NFL level.
2. Devon Achane – Running Back
Selected: Round 3, Pick 74
Devon Achane, one of the most explosive running backs in the country, has been a star at Texas A&M since his freshman season. Known for his blazing speed and breakaway ability, Achane has been the centerpiece of the Aggies’ rushing attack. As one of the fastest players in college football, Achane’s combination of agility and top-end speed has made him a standout player for Texas A&M. His performance in both the running and passing game has drawn the attention of NFL scouts, and many believe that Achane has the potential to be a major contributor at the next level.
Strengths
Achane’s primary strength lies in his speed. He has breakaway speed that can turn short runs into long touchdowns, and his ability to change direction quickly makes him a dangerous player in open space. Achane’s vision as a running back is another strong suit. He has a knack for finding running lanes, and his patience behind the line of scrimmage allows him to set up defenders before bursting through the gap.
One of the most unique aspects of Achane’s game is his ability to contribute in the passing game. While many running backs are limited to traditional rushing duties, Achane has shown an impressive ability to catch passes out of the backfield. His ability to run routes and make plays in the open field adds another layer to his game, making him a versatile weapon for NFL offenses.
Achane also has the ability to make defenders miss in one-on-one situations. His lateral quickness and elusiveness make him difficult to tackle in the open field, and he is constantly looking for ways to evade tacklers. His ability to run with power despite his smaller frame is also noteworthy, as he isn’t afraid to lower his shoulder and fight for extra yards.
Impact at Texas A&M
At Texas A&M, Achane was the focal point of the Aggies’ offense. Over his career, he accumulated nearly 3,000 rushing yards and scored numerous touchdowns, cementing himself as one of the top running backs in the SEC. His explosive plays were a regular feature of the Aggies’ offensive attack, and he was often used in a variety of ways to create mismatches against opposing defenses.
Achane’s contributions were not limited to just rushing. He also became a key player in the passing game, demonstrating his versatility as both a ball carrier and a receiver. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways made him one of the most exciting players in college football.
Achane’s leadership and work ethic were also key factors in his success at Texas A&M. He was known for his commitment to improvement, and his high football IQ allowed him to adapt to different offensive schemes. Whether it was running between the tackles or making plays in space, Achane’s ability to adapt to different situations made him an invaluable asset for the Aggies.
NFL Projection
Devon Achane’s combination of speed, vision, and versatility makes him one of the most exciting running back prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver makes him a perfect fit for the modern NFL, where running backs are expected to be multifaceted weapons. Achane’s impressive college production, paired with his elite speed, will make him a highly sought-after prospect.
Achane is projected to be selected in the third round of the draft, though there is potential for him to go higher depending on his performance at the NFL Combine and during private workouts. His value as a dynamic playmaker who can contribute in multiple facets of the game is immense, and he will likely be targeted by teams looking to add a playmaker to their backfield.
