Texas A&M Football Analyst Tony Catalina Teams Up with CBS Sports’ Shehan Jeyarajah to Break Down 2025 Aggies’ Roster and Outlook

In a spirited and insightful conversation that energized Texas A&M football fans across the country, Aggies analyst Tony Catalina welcomed CBS Sports college football insider Shehan Jeyarajah for a comprehensive discussion about the trajectory of the program under head coach Mike Elko. The duo’s deep dive, aired on the popular “Aggie Audible” podcast, covered everything from quarterback development to defensive identity and recruiting success, offering fans a detailed preview of the 2025 season and beyond.

A Fresh Era Under Mike Elko

Tony Catalina wasted no time in framing the importance of this upcoming season for the Aggies. “Mike Elko is bringing back the kind of grit this program has long prided itself on,” Catalina stated. “And it starts with fundamentals: defense, discipline, and physicality.”

Jeyarajah, who has covered college football nationally for years and previously reported on the Big 12 beat, echoed that sentiment. “The thing about Elko is that he knows Texas A&M—he understands its culture, its expectations, and its potential. You’re starting to see that translate in recruiting and player development.”

Since taking over the program after the departure of Jimbo Fisher, Elko has focused on revamping the team’s identity, instilling a defensive-first mentality while empowering his offensive staff to maximize the program’s growing pool of talent.

Quarterback Battle Heating Up

One of the central topics of the conversation was the ongoing quarterback battle. With sophomore Marcel Reed and junior Conner Weigman vying for the starting role, Catalina asked Jeyarajah what he’s hearing behind the scenes.

“Shehan, is there a clear favorite at this point?”

Jeyarajah replied, “Not yet. But Weigman has the edge in terms of experience. That said, Reed’s athleticism and poise have turned heads. This could be a decision that comes down to the final week before kickoff.”

Both analysts agreed that whoever wins the job will benefit from a more cohesive offensive system, thanks in large part to new offensive coordinator Collin Klein, who joined the staff after a successful stint at Kansas State.

“Elko hiring Klein was a strategic move,” Catalina said. “He wants someone who can develop quarterbacks while also crafting an offense that suits the SEC’s evolving landscape.”

A&M’s Defensive Identity Returns

No conversation about Mike Elko’s Aggies would be complete without a focus on defense. Under Fisher, the unit had moments of brilliance but often lacked consistency. That’s changing fast.

“Coach Elko’s defensive schemes are aggressive but structured,” Jeyarajah noted. “You’re seeing that in the way players are flying to the ball and holding each other accountable. I think this defense could be among the top five in the SEC.”

Catalina praised defensive standouts like Shemar Turner and Taurean York, who both played major roles last season and are expected to be anchors in 2025.

“York is a natural-born leader,” Catalina said. “He doesn’t just make plays—he inspires others to elevate their game.”

Jeyarajah added, “And you’re seeing more young guys—true freshmen—get meaningful reps in practice. That’s a sign the culture’s shifting.”

Recruiting Wins Are Adding Up

Texas A&M’s recent recruiting efforts under Elko were another highlight of the episode. The Aggies have secured commitments from multiple four-star and five-star players, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines.

“Shehan, how important is this recruiting class for A&M?” Catalina asked.

“Huge,” Jeyarajah answered. “This class isn’t just about filling holes. It’s about establishing long-term depth and building a sustainable winning culture. When you’re bringing in top-tier talent and developing them quickly, that’s how you separate from the middle of the pack in the SEC.”

Catalina also pointed out that Elko has placed a heavy emphasis on in-state recruiting. “He’s made it clear that if there’s a five-star in Texas, A&M is going to be in the race. That wasn’t always the case under Fisher.”

NIL and Transfer Portal Strategy

Both analysts discussed the importance of balancing NIL commitments and managing the transfer portal—two aspects of modern college football that can make or break a season.

“Elko and his staff have done a solid job identifying portal talent who fit the culture,” Jeyarajah said. “This isn’t just about grabbing the best available athlete—it’s about finding guys who can step in and lead right away.”

Tony Catalina nodded in agreement. “That’s where Elko’s approach really stands out. He’s focused on retention and chemistry. You can bring in elite players, but if the locker room doesn’t click, you’re going nowhere.”

Big Games and Key Matchups

The 2025 schedule is full of pivotal matchups that could define the Aggies’ season, including early games against Notre Dame and Florida, as well as crucial SEC clashes with Alabama and Texas.

“You look at that October stretch—Alabama, then LSU, and a road trip to Austin to play Texas. That’s going to tell us everything about this team,” Catalina said.

Jeyarajah added, “And the Aggies don’t just need to be competitive—they need signature wins. Beating Texas in their house or knocking off Alabama would elevate the program’s national profile.”

Coaching Culture and Leadership

A final theme of the conversation was leadership. Both analysts praised the staff’s ability to connect with players on a personal level, emphasizing accountability and unity.

“Elko is building a culture of responsibility,” Catalina said. “From the top down, players know what’s expected, and they’re buying in.”

“Shehan, you said it best on your CBS column,” Catalina continued. “Texas A&M finally looks like a team with direction.”

Jeyarajah smiled. “It took time, but yeah—this is a team with vision. And Aggie fans should be excited.”

As the episode wrapped up, Catalina and Jeyarajah took time to reflect on what success would look like in 2025.

“A ten-win season with a New Year’s Six bowl? That’s not out of reach,” Jeyarajah said.

Catalina agreed. “But even more important is establishing consistency. Texas A&M fans have waited a long time for stability—and this might finally be the beginning.”

For Aggie Nation, that kind of optimism hasn’t always been easy to come by. But if Tony Catalina and Shehan Jeyarajah’s analysis proves true, the 2025 season could mark a turning point—one built on fundamentals, fueled by star power, and guided by a coach who knows exactly what Aggieland stands for.