Texas A&M’s 2025 running back corps features a talented, experienced group, returning key players and solidifying their status as one of the top running back rooms in college football.

The landscape of college football constantly evolves, but one constant remains: a dominant running game is often the backbone of a successful team. As Texas A&M gears up for the 2025 season, their running back room stands out as one of the most talented and experienced in the nation. The Aggies’ commitment to developing a versatile, explosive rushing attack is evident in their roster, which features returning stars, emerging talents, and a coaching staff dedicated to maximizing their potential.

This preview explores the depth, talent, and impact of Texas A&M’s 2025 running back corps, analyzing individual players, their roles, the scheme, and how this group is positioning the Aggies as a national contender with one of the premier backfields in college football.

1. The Significance of a Strong Running Back Room
Before delving into individual players, it’s important to understand why a potent running back corps is vital. A versatile RB group provides offensive balance, keeps defenses honest, and creates multiple scoring avenues. It also allows for strategic flexibility—whether establishing a ground attack to control the clock or providing explosive plays in the passing game through screens and checkdowns.

Texas A&M’s coaching staff, led by head coach Jimbo Fisher and offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, emphasizes a balanced, aggressive style that leverages the strengths of their running backs. The 2025 roster reflects this philosophy, with a mix of power runners, shifty change-of-pace backs, and pass-catching specialists.

2. Returning Key Players: The Foundation of the RB Corps
A. Devone “D.J.” Harris — The Lead Back
D.J. Harris has established himself as the centerpiece of Texas A&M’s rushing attack. Coming into the 2025 season, Harris is a seasoned veteran with significant production and leadership qualities. His physical running style, coupled with impressive vision and agility, makes him a dual-threat capable of breaking off big runs or grinding out tough yards.

Strengths:

Power and contact balance, capable of running through arm tackles
Good vision to find lanes and set up blocks
Experience in high-pressure situations, including key conference games
Development:
Harris has improved his pass protection and receiving skills, making him more versatile and less predictable as a runner. His durability and consistency have made him a reliable feature back for the Aggies.

Impact:
Expect Harris to be the primary ball-carrier early in the season, handling the lion’s share of carries and setting the tone for Texas A&M’s ground attack.

B. Elijah “Eli” Carter — The Explosive Home-Run Threat
Eli Carter provides the speed and agility that defenses fear. His ability to hit the edge and turn small gains into long touchdowns makes him a crucial element in the Aggies’ big-play potential.

Strengths:

Elite acceleration and top-end speed
Ability to make defenders miss in open space
Good route running out of the backfield
Role:
Carter’s role extends beyond just running the ball; he’s a dynamic receiving threat, often used in screens, wheel routes, and as a decoy to open up the field.

Future Outlook:
If Carter stays healthy and continues refining his vision, he could surpass Harris in explosive plays, especially in situations designed to exploit his speed.

C. Marcus “Big M” Johnson — The Versatile Fullback/Power Back
Johnson adds a different dimension to the backfield. His size, strength, and blocking ability make him invaluable in short-yardage and goal-line situations. He also has the hands to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield.

Strengths:

Elite blocking skills, paving the way for other backs
Power running ability, especially in tight spaces
Leadership qualities, motivating the offensive unit
Role:
Johnson often serves as the lead blocker but can also carry the ball in critical situations. His versatility allows the coaching staff to diversify the rushing attack.

3. Emerging Talents and the Future of the RB Room
A. Xavier “X” Martinez — The Young Gun
Martinez is a rising star, a freshman or sophomore with high upside. His blend of agility, vision, and speed has garnered attention from the coaching staff and fans alike.

Potential:

A change-of-pace back with the ability to catch passes and stretch defenses
A player who could see increased touches as the season progresses
A potential breakout star if given opportunities
B. Transfer Adds and Depth
Texas A&M’s recent transfer portal activity has bolstered their backfield depth, bringing in experienced players who can contribute immediately or develop into starters.

Transfer X: A proven SEC back with multiple years of production, bringing leadership and experience.
Redshirt Freshmen: Talented prospects who could carve out roles with development and strong performances in practice.
4. Scheme and Offensive Philosophy
The Aggies’ offensive approach under Jimbo Fisher and Bobby Petrino emphasizes a balanced attack that relies heavily on the run game, especially in critical situations. The scheme incorporates:

Zone Read and Power Runs: Allowing backs like Harris and Johnson to find gaps and utilize their physicality.
Counter and Trap Blocks: Creating misdirection and opening lanes for explosive runs.
Pass-catching Out of the Backfield: Utilizing backs like Carter and Martinez for screens, swings, and checkdowns to keep defenses honest.
This multi-faceted system maximizes the talents of their backs, enabling them to be both effective runners and pass-catchers.

5. The Role of the Offensive Line
A strong running game is also dependent on the offensive line’s performance. Texas A&M’s front five has been praised for its physicality and cohesion, setting the stage for a successful rushing attack.

Key Factors:

Consistent pass protection to allow long runs to develop
Creating running lanes for Harris and others
Providing pass-blocking support for backs in the passing game
The continuity and development of the line in 2025 will directly impact the success of the backfield.

6. Historical Performance and Expectations
Recent Trends in College Football
The college game has shifted toward a more pass-oriented style, but the elite teams still maintain a robust rushing attack. Teams with a dominant running back or a deep RB room often control the tempo and wear down opponents.

Texas A&M’s Recent RB Success
In recent years, Texas A&M has produced NFL-caliber backs, such as Isaiah Spiller, who contributed significantly to their success. The 2025 group aims to continue this legacy, combining veteran leadership with young talent.

Projected Production
Given the talent and experience, expectations are high. Harris and Carter could combine for over 2,000 rushing yards and 20+ touchdowns if they stay healthy and the offensive line performs well.

7. Why Texas A&M’s RB Room Is One of the Best in College Football
Depth and Talent
Having multiple proven backs allows for a dynamic rushing attack. The ability to rotate players keeps fresh legs on the field and prevents defenses from keying on one runner.

Versatility
The mix of power, speed, and receiving ability creates matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. The backs can be used in various formations and situations, adding unpredictability.

Coaching and Scheme
Fisher and Petrino’s offensive philosophy maximizes the strengths of their backs. Their emphasis on a balanced attack ensures that the running game remains a core component of their offense.

Proven Track Record
The history of producing NFL-ready backs and the current roster’s talent level indicate that Texas A&M’s backfield will be a significant factor in their 2025 success.

8. Challenges and Considerations
Injuries
The durability of key players like Harris and Carter will be vital. Injuries can derail a promising season and reduce the effectiveness of the running game.

Defensive Adjustments
Opposing defenses will scheme to contain the run, especially against a formidable backfield. The Aggies must adapt and diversify their attack to stay ahead.

Consistency and Development
Young players and transfers need time to gel. The offensive line’s development and team chemistry will influence overall production.

In conclusion, the Texas A&M 2025 running back room is a powerhouse, combining returning stars, emerging talents, and strategic depth. Their blend of experience, talent, and scheme execution positions them as one of the top RB groups in college football.

If Harris remains healthy, Carter continues to develop, and the offensive line performs at a high level, the Aggies’ rushing attack can be a decisive factor in their quest for a college football playoff bid and national prominence. The potential for explosive plays, combined with their power running game, makes their backfield a significant threat to any opponent.

As the 2025 season approaches, expectations are high. Texas A&M fans and college football enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see if this elite RB room lives up to its billing — and if it can propel the Aggies to new heights in the fiercely competitive landscape of college football.