How the top five-rated commitments in Texas A&M football history turned out

Texas A&M Football has long been a fixture in the college football landscape, boasting a rich history and a reputation for attracting some of the nation’s most highly rated recruits. Over the years, the Aggies have built a reputation not just for their competitive spirit but also for their ability to secure commitments from elite high school players. These commitments have led to some of the most exciting and successful seasons in the program’s history, but how have the top-rated recruits actually fared during their time at Texas A&M?

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the top five-rated commitments in Texas A&M football history, analyzing their careers, how they lived up to the hype, and how they ultimately impacted the program.

**1. Reuben Foster (2013) – Linebacker

Recruitment: Rated as a five-star recruit by multiple recruiting services, Reuben Foster is perhaps the most notable commitment in the history of Texas A&M football. The Auburn, Alabama, native was one of the most sought-after linebacker recruits in the nation in the 2013 class, and his recruitment was widely publicized. Foster initially committed to Auburn, but after a dramatic change of heart, he switched to Texas A&M, sending shockwaves through the college football recruiting world.

Career at Texas A&M: Unfortunately, Foster’s career at Texas A&M was a brief one. Despite the high expectations surrounding his recruitment, Foster’s time with the Aggies didn’t go as planned. After committing to the Aggies in 2013, he never actually played a game for Texas A&M. Foster faced off-field issues that led to his eventual transfer to Alabama in 2014, where he became a dominant force in the SEC.

Legacy: Though Foster never played for the Aggies, his recruitment remains one of the most talked-about moments in Texas A&M football history. After transferring to Alabama, Foster went on to become a consensus All-American and was drafted in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. While Texas A&M did not benefit from Foster’s talent on the field, his recruitment illustrated the high-profile nature of Aggie football and the national recognition the program garnered during that time.

**2. Derrick Henry (2013) – Running Back

Recruitment: Like Reuben Foster, Derrick Henry was another five-star recruit in the 2013 class. As a high school running back, Henry was widely regarded as one of the best prospects in the nation. Hailing from Yulee, Florida, he was an absolute beast on the football field and had a reputation for running over defenders with his blend of size, speed, and power. Henry’s recruitment was a highly anticipated one, and Texas A&M made a strong push for his commitment.

Career at Texas A&M: Unlike Foster, Henry did eventually suit up for Texas A&M, albeit briefly. However, after a strong recruitment, he ultimately decommitted from the Aggies and chose to play for Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide. At Alabama, Henry’s career took off. He broke multiple records, won the Heisman Trophy in 2015, and led Alabama to a national championship.

Henry became one of the most dominant running backs in college football history and was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

Legacy: While the Aggies lost out on one of the greatest running backs in college football history, Henry’s success at Alabama further highlighted the challenges Texas A&M faced in keeping top-tier recruits within their grasp. His stellar career in college football has left a lasting legacy in the SEC and the NFL. Despite his departure to Alabama, Henry remains one of the most highly regarded commitments in Texas A&M history, even though the Aggies didn’t get the chance to see his immense talent on the field.

**3. Miles Garrett (2014) – Defensive End

Recruitment: Miles Garrett is undoubtedly one of the most successful recruits in Texas A&M football history. As a five-star defensive end, Garrett was ranked as the top overall recruit in the nation in 2014. From Arlington, Texas, Garrett’s combination of size, speed, and pass-rushing ability made him one of the most coveted players in the country. Texas A&M was able to secure Garrett’s commitment despite heavy competition from traditional powerhouses like Alabama and Texas.

Career at Texas A&M: Garrett lived up to the hype and then some. From the moment he stepped onto the field, Garrett was a force. His presence was felt immediately, as he was named an All-SEC selection and Freshman All-American in his first year at A&M. Over the next three years, Garrett would continue to dominate, finishing his career with 31 sacks, 141 tackles, and numerous accolades. He was an unstoppable pass rusher who caused havoc in the backfield, regularly disrupting opposing quarterbacks and offensive schemes.

Garrett’s standout performance at Texas A&M cemented his status as one of the top defensive prospects in college football. Following his junior season, Garrett declared for the 2017 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Cleveland Browns with the first overall pick.

Legacy: Garrett’s impact on Texas A&M football was immeasurable. His play elevated the Aggie defense to new heights and made him a household name in college football. As a player, Garrett brought a level of intensity and competitiveness that made him an absolute force on the field. Even though he only spent three years at Texas A&M, Garrett’s legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in program history is secure. He is also one of the most successful players to come out of the Aggie football program, as he has become a key player for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL.

**4. Christian Kirk (2015) – Wide Receiver

Recruitment: Christian Kirk was another five-star recruit that Texas A&M was able to land in 2015. A standout wide receiver from Scottsdale, Arizona, Kirk was one of the top offensive prospects in the country. He was a dynamic playmaker who possessed elite speed, hands, and a natural ability to make big plays. His recruitment was intense, with several programs vying for his services, but Texas A&M was able to secure his commitment.

Career at Texas A&M: Kirk’s career at Texas A&M was nothing short of spectacular. From his first game, he displayed his ability to make game-changing plays. Kirk became the focal point of the Aggies’ passing attack, earning All-SEC honors in each of his three seasons at A&M. By the end of his career, Kirk had amassed more than 2,800 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns, along with multiple records for the program. His electrifying performances helped push Texas A&M into SEC contention and made him a household name across the country.

Kirk left Texas A&M after his junior season, declaring for the 2018 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round.

Legacy: Kirk’s legacy at Texas A&M is secure as one of the program’s most productive and dynamic wide receivers in history. His ability to make plays both as a receiver and a return man was a key factor in the Aggies’ offensive success during his time at the school. Kirk has continued his success in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals, further solidifying his standing as one of the top recruits to ever commit to Texas A&M.

**5. Evan Stewart (2023) – Wide Receiver

Recruitment: As one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2023 class, Evan Stewart was another five-star recruit that Texas A&M was able to secure early on. Hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Stewart had the reputation of being one of the most electrifying wide receivers in high school football. His recruitment process was highly publicized, and Texas A&M secured his commitment over a slew of rival programs.

Career at Texas A&M: Though Stewart is still in the early stages of his college career, his potential is undeniable. In his freshman season, Stewart quickly became one of the most important offensive weapons for the Aggies. His ability to separate from defenders, make contested catches, and contribute as a deep threat made him a key part of the Aggies’ offense. His progress during his first year has shown that he has the potential to become one of the top wide receivers in the SEC.

Legacy: Though it’s still early in Stewart’s career, the early returns are promising. If he continues on his current trajectory, Stewart could quickly join the ranks of Texas A&M’s all-time greats. His combination of speed, route-running ability, and hands is exactly what the Aggies need to elevate their offense in the coming seasons. Fans are excited to see how his career unfolds and how he contributes to the Aggies’ pursuit of an SEC title.