‘I’m all in on Texas A&M’ 2026 4-star LB sends message after his OV to Texas A&M.
In the ever-evolving world of college football recruiting, few statements carry as much weight as “I’m all in.” And when those words come from a top-tier recruit in the 2026 class, the college football world listens. That’s exactly what happened when Tai’Yion “Tank” King, a rising 4-star linebacker from Port Arthur Memorial (TX), made his post-visit feelings crystal clear: he’s all in on Texas A&M.
King, listed at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the most instinctual and physical linebackers in the nation. With offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, Texas, LSU, Michigan, and Notre Dame, his recruiting journey has drawn significant attention. But following his official visit to College Station in June 2025, King delivered the kind of message that gets fan bases buzzing and coaching staffs celebrating.
“I’m all in on Texas A&M,” King said via social media following the visit. “The coaches made me feel like family. This defense is built for guys like me. Gig ’em!”
While King hasn’t formally announced a commitment, his message certainly suggests Texas A&M has pulled far ahead in his recruitment — and possibly locked it up.
Building Toward This Moment
Tank King isn’t new to the spotlight. As a sophomore at Port Arthur Memorial, he exploded onto the Texas high school football scene with 138 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, and a relentless motor that saw him chase down plays sideline to sideline. His ability to read plays, fill gaps, and make plays in space has made him a prototype for the modern linebacker.
College programs took notice early. By the end of his sophomore year, King had more than 20 Power Five offers. Yet throughout the process, Texas A&M remained a constant presence. Former head coach Jimbo Fisher initially extended the offer, but it was Mike Elko and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman who took his recruitment to another level.
“They’ve always been real with me,” King told local media in the spring. “Coach Elko breaks it down — what I need to work on, how I’d fit, and what the plan is. That’s the kind of coaching I want.”
The Official Visit Experience
Official visits are meant to leave an impression — and for King, Texas A&M knocked it out of the park. The weekend visit included a full campus tour, time with academic advisors, one-on-one meetings with coaches, and a highlight reel of the program’s legacy and future goals.
But what stood out the most?
“The energy. From the moment I stepped on campus, it felt different,” King said. “It’s not just about football. They really care about your future — on and off the field.”
King was hosted by several current A&M linebackers, who showed him the player facilities, dorms, and locker room atmosphere. According to sources close to the program, King instantly clicked with the players and coaching staff alike.
A Perfect Fit in the Aggies’ Scheme
Texas A&M’s defensive system under Mike Elko emphasizes versatility and aggression — two qualities that define King’s game. Whether playing inside or outside linebacker, he thrives on diagnosing plays and getting downhill with speed. His coverage skills are also above average, which makes him an asset on third downs.
Jay Bateman, the Aggies’ defensive coordinator, reportedly spent time with King breaking down film of recent Aggie standouts and illustrating how King would be used similarly.
“He’s the kind of player you build a defense around,” one source told AggiesWire. “We’re not just recruiting him to be part of the roster — we see him as a future captain.”
Reaction Across the Recruiting Landscape
After King posted his “all in” message on social media, recruiting analysts and fans immediately speculated about an imminent commitment. While no official announcement has been made, insiders believe Texas A&M is now the clear front-runner.
“From what we’re hearing, unless something drastically changes, Tank King is headed to College Station,” said a national recruiting analyst for 247Sports. “The visit sealed it.”
King is expected to take visits to a few other programs, including Texas and possibly Notre Dame, but his most recent statements make it clear: Texas A&M has set the bar extremely high.
Impact on the 2026 Recruiting Class
Landing Tank King would be a monumental boost for Texas A&M’s 2026 class, which already includes four-star commitments from linebacker Samu Moala, wide receiver Aaron Gregory, and edge rusher Jordan Carter. King would likely be the crown jewel of the class — a statement addition that would solidify the Aggies’ defensive core for years to come.
His presence could also influence other undecided recruits. Players often look at peer commitments when deciding where to land, and a talent like King going to A&M could set off a domino effect.
What’s Next for King?
While all signs point toward a future in College Station, King still has time to make it official. The early signing period for the 2026 class doesn’t open until December 2025, and the linebacker plans to play out his junior season before announcing anything concrete.
Still, his words carry weight.
“All in” isn’t just a phrase. It’s a commitment to a vision, a culture, and a program that King clearly believes in.
Texas A&M fans have every reason to be excited. In a highly competitive recruiting cycle, the Aggies appear to have landed a game-changer. Tai’Yion “Tank” King has the talent, leadership, and football IQ to anchor a defense — and the passion to become a fan favorite.
Whether his pledge becomes official in the coming months or later in the fall, one thing is clear:
Tank King believes in Texas A&M — and that belief may shape the future of the Aggies’ defense.
