The 2025 Aggie football team’s captains are confirmed by Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko, who emphasizes experience and leadership.

As Texas A&M football continues to build toward a successful 2025 season, head coach Mike Elko has confirmed the captains for the upcoming year, signaling a significant step in shaping the team’s identity and leadership dynamics. The announcement of the captains is more than just a formality; it represents a critical element in Texas A&M’s preparation for a highly competitive season. With the team facing high expectations, the role of these captains will be crucial not only for maintaining team morale but also for ensuring the Aggies’ success both on and off the field.

Coach Elko, who has consistently emphasized the importance of strong leadership since taking the helm of the Aggie football program, knows that captains are often the heart and soul of a team. These individuals are tasked with guiding the team through adversity, rallying their teammates in moments of crisis, and setting the standard for what it means to be a Texas A&M Aggie. Their actions in practice, in the locker room, and in games influence the culture and energy of the entire squad.

Mike Elko’s Leadership Philosophy and the Importance of Captains

Before diving into the specifics of the individual captains for 2025, it’s important to understand Coach Mike Elko’s leadership philosophy. Elko has always prided himself on cultivating a team-first mentality. While his coaching acumen is undeniable, he places an even greater emphasis on building a unified, resilient team where leadership is both earned and respected. Elko has made it clear that leadership is about actions, not just words, and the captains for the 2025 season exemplify those qualities.

“Being a captain is not about a title; it’s about influence,” Elko said in an earlier interview. “The players who wear that ‘C’ on their chest have proven themselves to be the ones who lead with consistency, accountability, and work ethic. These are the players who set the tone for what the program represents, both on the field and off it.”

This approach aligns with the Aggies’ vision for 2025, where leadership will be one of the key pillars driving the team toward success. As Texas A&M prepares for a challenging schedule, the importance of effective leadership cannot be overstated. Elko’s leadership style emphasizes not only physical talent but also the mental toughness and camaraderie needed to overcome obstacles and perform at a high level.

The 2025 Aggie Football Team Captains

This season’s leadership group is a blend of experienced veterans and emerging stars. The captains come from a variety of positions, each bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the leadership table. The selection of these players reflects the team’s desire to maintain a balance between tradition, excellence, and new energy. Let’s take a closer look at the captains who will lead the Texas A&M Aggies into the 2025 season:

1. Quarterback – Jaden Rashada

Jaden Rashada, the highly touted quarterback, has been one of the most talked-about players in college football since committing to Texas A&M. Known for his strong arm, leadership skills, and poise under pressure, Rashada’s journey to becoming a captain is a testament to his development both as a player and a leader. Rashada earned the respect of his teammates from day one, establishing himself not just as a top-tier quarterback but also as a vocal leader on and off the field.

Rashada’s selection as a captain signals the importance of his role in guiding the Aggies’ offense. Quarterbacks are typically expected to lead by example, and Rashada’s ability to rally the team and make decisions under pressure will be crucial for Texas A&M’s success in 2025. His maturity and leadership qualities will undoubtedly help elevate the performance of those around him.

2. Linebacker – Chris Russell

Chris Russell is a player who has been a steady presence in the Aggies’ defense for the past few seasons. Known for his physicality, high football IQ, and relentless pursuit of the ball, Russell has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities that go beyond his on-field performance. He plays with passion and intensity, and those traits have made him a natural choice for captain.

As a linebacker, Russell’s responsibilities on the field are wide-ranging, from directing the defense to making key tackles and reading offensive schemes. However, his leadership goes beyond his playmaking ability; he is a vocal presence in the locker room and is known for holding his teammates accountable. His role as a captain for the 2025 season is critical for Texas A&M’s defense, as they will look to Russell to guide a unit that will need to be both aggressive and disciplined throughout the season.

3. Offensive Tackle – Kam Dewberry

Offensive line play is often overlooked when discussing leadership, but Kam Dewberry’s selection as a captain underscores the importance of strong leadership in the trenches. Dewberry, a powerful and technically sound offensive tackle, has developed into one of the most dominant forces on the Aggies’ offensive line. He plays with a tenacity that sets the tone for the rest of the line, and his leadership by example makes him a perfect candidate to serve as a captain.

Dewberry’s role as a leader in the trenches is vital to Texas A&M’s offensive success in 2025. Offensive linemen may not always receive the spotlight, but their ability to control the line of scrimmage is essential for both the running game and passing game. Dewberry’s experience and work ethic will be crucial in mentoring the younger linemen and ensuring that the offensive line plays at a consistently high level.

4. Safety – Demani Richardson

Demani Richardson has been a key player for the Aggies’ defense throughout his career, and his leadership extends beyond his stellar performance on the field. As a safety, Richardson is often the quarterback of the secondary, responsible for directing the defensive backs and ensuring that the defense stays organized. His ability to read the quarterback and anticipate plays has made him one of the best defensive players in the SEC.

Richardson’s leadership extends to the mental aspect of the game as well. He has consistently shown an ability to keep his teammates focused and disciplined, particularly in high-pressure situations. As the captain of the defense, Richardson will be responsible for ensuring that the defensive unit stays aligned and performs at a high level throughout the season.

5. Wide Receiver – Ainias Smith

Ainias Smith has been one of the most dynamic playmakers on Texas A&M’s offense since he arrived on campus. Known for his agility, quickness, and ability to make explosive plays, Smith has been a go-to option in the passing game and is often the focal point of the Aggies’ offensive game plan. However, his leadership qualities extend beyond his playmaking ability.

Smith is known for his positive attitude and his ability to connect with his teammates. He is the kind of player who brings energy and enthusiasm to the team, helping to motivate others to perform at their best. As a captain, Smith will be expected to lead by example both on the field and in practice. His leadership will be especially valuable in guiding the wide receiver corps and helping to create a strong rapport between himself and the quarterbacks.

Leadership in Action: The Role of Captains During the Season

The role of captains extends far beyond the preseason announcement. In the heat of the season, these players will be called upon to step up in key moments, rally their teammates, and ensure that the team stays focused on its goals. While the captains are expected to lead by example, they will also be responsible for fostering a sense of camaraderie and accountability within the team.

One of the most important aspects of leadership is handling adversity. Whether it’s an early-season loss, a tough matchup against a rival, or a challenging stretch of games, the captains must keep the team focused and united. Their ability to handle pressure and help the team stay grounded will be crucial to Texas A&M’s success in 2025.

In addition to their leadership on the field, the captains will play a critical role in building the culture of the team off the field. From mentoring younger players to setting the standard in practice, these captains will help to ensure that the Aggies’ program remains one of the most respected in college football.

The confirmation of the 2025 Texas A&M Aggie football captains by Mike Elko is a pivotal moment in the team’s journey to success. The leadership of Jaden Rashada, Chris Russell, Kam Dewberry, Demani Richardson, and Ainias Smith will play a key role in shaping the team’s fortunes this season. With a mix of veterans and emerging stars, the Aggies have assembled a leadership group that is ready to guide the team to new heights.

As Texas A&M prepares for what promises to be an exciting and competitive 2025 season, all eyes will be on the captains to see how they lead the team both on and off the field. With their leadership, experience, and talent, the Aggies are well-positioned to make a run at the top of the SEC and beyond. The road to success is never easy, but with strong leadership in place, Texas A&M is primed for a season to remember.