Two Texas A&M Aggies Named Among Top-100 Returning Players in College Football

As the 2025 college football season looms, excitement is building around teams and players set to make an impact. One of the most promising programs in recent years is the Texas A&M Aggies. With a rich history, fanatical support, and a rising reputation, Texas A&M has been preparing to make a significant splash on the national stage. This year, two Aggies stand out in particular: players whose talent, leadership, and potential have earned them a spot among the Top-100 Returning Players in college football for the upcoming season. Their inclusion on this list is a testament to their hard work, determination, and rising importance to the program.

In this article, we will explore the significance of these two Texas A&M players, examine their potential impact in 2025, and delve into how they could help elevate the Aggies to new heights.

1. Layden Robinson – Offensive Guard

Position Overview and Importance

One of the most critical positions in football, often underappreciated despite its importance, is the offensive line. The offensive line serves as the backbone of any football team, and a dominant offensive lineman can help establish the run game, protect the quarterback, and control the tempo of the game. This is exactly where Layden Robinson, a standout offensive guard for the Texas A&M Aggies, comes into the picture.

Robinson has garnered attention across the college football landscape, earning a spot among the top-100 returning players for 2025. The 6’4″, 335-pound guard is an imposing figure on the line and has proven himself to be one of the most consistent and reliable players for Texas A&M. His combination of size, strength, and technique makes him a force to be reckoned with in both the run and pass game.

Why Layden Robinson is Among the Top-100 Returning Players

There are several reasons why Robinson is considered one of the top returning players in college football. First and foremost is his physical prowess. Robinson has the size and power that allows him to excel in both run blocking and pass protection. His ability to move defenders off the line of scrimmage makes him an essential part of Texas A&M’s offensive attack. Whether it’s creating holes for the running backs or keeping the quarterback upright in the pocket, Robinson’s presence on the field is invaluable.

Robinson’s skill set extends beyond just brute strength. His technical ability—especially in hand placement, footwork, and his awareness on the field—makes him a standout among his peers. The combination of power and technique ensures that Robinson can handle a variety of defensive linemen, no matter their size or speed. Whether he’s dealing with speed rushers or more powerful interior linemen, Robinson has the tools to neutralize them.

Another factor contributing to Robinson’s inclusion in the top-100 returning players is his leadership. As an upperclassman, Robinson has been a key figure in the locker room, helping to set the tone for the rest of the team. His commitment to his craft and his ability to bring out the best in his teammates make him an irreplaceable part of Texas A&M’s offensive line.

Impact on Texas A&M in 2025

As Texas A&M looks to improve in 2025, Robinson’s role on the offensive line will be one of the most crucial for the Aggies’ success. The offensive line will need to protect the quarterback and create opportunities for the running game to take off, and Robinson is expected to be at the forefront of that effort. A dominant run game can help set up the pass, and Robinson’s blocking will be instrumental in that process.

With the Aggies having a young quarterback—who will likely rely on a strong offensive line for protection—Robinson’s leadership and performance will be critical to ensuring that the offense functions smoothly. His ability to create space in the running game will also be vital for Texas A&M’s talented running backs, enabling them to break out for big gains and keep opposing defenses on their toes.

Robinson’s presence and versatility also allow Texas A&M to keep defenses guessing. With him on the offensive line, the Aggies have one of the best in the business to lean on, and his ability to dominate the trenches will be one of the deciding factors in how successful Texas A&M is this season.

2. Antonio Johnson – Safety

Position Overview and Importance

The safety position is crucial in college football, as safeties are responsible for both pass coverage and run support. A playmaking safety can turn the tide of a game with a timely interception, a forced fumble, or a key tackle. For Texas A&M, Antonio Johnson is that player—one of the most exciting defensive prospects in college football.

Johnson has played a pivotal role in Texas A&M’s defense in recent seasons, earning recognition as one of the most talented safeties in the nation. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 200 pounds, Johnson possesses the size and athleticism to play all over the field. His range, ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, and knack for making plays are what have made him a standout.

Why Antonio Johnson is Among the Top-100 Returning Players

Antonio Johnson’s inclusion in the top-100 returning players list can be attributed to his impressive ability to impact the game on multiple levels. In pass coverage, Johnson is adept at reading the quarterback’s eyes, anticipating throws, and making plays on the ball. His athleticism allows him to cover a large area of the field, and his ball skills have helped him make key interceptions and break up passes. These abilities make him a nightmare for quarterbacks, as he has the range to cover multiple zones in the secondary.

Johnson is also a force in run defense. His ability to come up to the line of scrimmage and make tackles in the open field adds another dimension to his game. Whether it’s stopping a running back from breaking a long run or providing support in the box on third down, Johnson has proven to be a versatile defender who can adapt to various situations.

One of the reasons Johnson is considered one of the best safeties in the country is his leadership on defense. As an upperclassman, Johnson has been instrumental in guiding younger players on Texas A&M’s defense and setting the standard for what it means to be a disciplined and effective defender. His high football IQ and understanding of the game make him a mentor to his teammates.

Impact on Texas A&M in 2025

As Texas A&M’s defense enters the 2025 season, Antonio Johnson will be one of the key leaders on that side of the ball. His ability to take away big plays in the passing game and his physicality in the run game make him a complete safety. With so much of the game shifting toward the passing attack, a player like Johnson, who excels in both coverage and run support, will be a critical piece of Texas A&M’s defensive unit.

Johnson’s ability to lead the defense and make plays when the team needs them most will be invaluable to Texas A&M’s championship aspirations. The Aggies are aiming for an SEC title, and having a player of Johnson’s caliber in the secondary will be crucial for shutting down opposing offenses. Whether it’s locking down top-tier receivers, breaking up passes, or getting the ball back for the offense with a key interception, Johnson has the potential to be one of the biggest playmakers for Texas A&M in 2025.

His leadership in the secondary, combined with his ability to make key stops, will help solidify the Aggies’ defense as one of the toughest units in the country.