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Carthage star RB KJ Edwards commits to Texas A&M, bringing elite explosiveness to the Aggies’ backfield
Official confirmation that Carthage High standout running back KJ Edwards has committed to Texas A&M, choosing the Aggies over Texas, LSU, Alabama, and others. The commitment injects elite explosiveness into A&M’s 2026 class and has significant implications for their backfield—and rivalries—moving forward. Here’s the scoop:
- What happened?
On June 17–18, 2025, four-star running back KJ Edwards from Carthage, Texas, announced his commitment to Texas A&M. He chose the Aggies over several powerhouses, including Texas, LSU, and Alabama . - Where he ranks:
Edwards is nationally ranked as the No. 2 running back in the Class of 2026 and No. 47 overall; he’s the No. 5 prospect in Texas according to 247Sports .
His junior-year stats at Carthage showcase his game-breaking talent:
- Rushing: 1,789 yards, 23 touchdowns — averaging a staggering 12.6 yards per carry .
- Receiving: 30 catches for 383 yards and 3 TDs .
- Championship impact: Led Carthage to a 4A Division II state title, earning Offensive MVP honors in the championship win over Waco La Vega .
- Elite dual-threat ability: At 5’10”, 180 lb, Edwards combines power, speed, receiving skill, and breakaway potential. High-level outlets describe him as a “satellite” back—elusive in open space and tough between the tackles .
- Strong evaluation: A 4-star recruit rated 92/100 by SicEm365, he’s viewed as one of the top 30–40 players in Texas—a major talent in a talent-dense state .
- Recruiting traction: Texas A&M’s running backs coach Trooper Taylor and head coach Mike Elko made in-depth visits to Carthage, building strong rapport long before the commitment .
- 17th commitment in the 2026 recruiting class, marking A&M’s sixth verbal in June .
- Adds another dynamic element to the backfield, complementing earlier commit Jonathan Hatton Jr. .
- Boosts A&M’s national recruiting class ranking to No. 7 overall in the 247Sports composite .
- Edwards had official visits lined up not only to College Station in June but also to Texas and Baylor .
- Previous visits included Colorado in April (where he also had an offer) .
- He considered schools across the country—including Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame, and Florida State .
- Emphasizes family and legacy: He credits his dad as his inspiration and aspires to build a name for himself and younger brother JD .
- Inspired by elite backs: He models his game after Alvin Kamara, Reggie Bush—and coaches have compared him to De’Von Achane .
- Off-field: Maintains a 3.9 GPA, runs track (100 m in ~11 seconds), and values academics and athletic balance .
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Speed & Elusiveness | 75-yard TD runs, 269-yard games, breakaway threat |
| Receiving ability | 30+ catches in junior year, strong hands, flexible utilization |
| Versatility | Can run between tackles, catch passes, and contribute in return game |
| Football IQ & blocking | Focuses on details like blocking fundamentals |
- Provides a true backfield weapon with game-breaking speed and vision.
- Enhances A&M’s insurgency in recruiting vs. rivals—beating Texas and LSU to top-tier in-state talent.
- Adds depth and explosiveness—setting A&M up for dynamic offensive schemes.
- Fall 2025 season begins: KJ enters senior year already focused on cementing legacy—aiming for another state title and higher personal production.
- Spring–summer 2026: Watch for early enrollees and camp visits at A&M.
- 2026 commitment season: His signing cements A&M’s backfield plans and boosts class ranking.
KJ Edwards is more than just a standout back—he’s a shifting force in Texas A&M’s 2026 class. His dynamic skill set, national ranking, and his decision over rivals underscore a major directional win for the Aggies. Expect him to become a featured playmaker on campus once he arrives in College Station.
