Texas A&M football position breakdown for spring: A&M’s quarterback might lead the team to success in 2025

As the Texas A&M Aggies gear up for the 2025 football season, the program finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. After a challenging 2023 campaign, head coach Mike Elko, who took over the reins in 2023, is looking to re-establish the Aggies as contenders in the SEC and, ultimately, on the national stage. One of the key positions to keep an eye on as spring practice unfolds is quarterback, where Texas A&M has some exciting talent vying for the starting spot. A strong showing from the quarterback position could very well define the success of the Aggies in 2025 and beyond.

In this article, we’ll break down the current state of Texas A&M football heading into the spring of 2025, examining key position groups, player developments, and what the team needs to focus on to succeed in the upcoming season. We will also take an in-depth look at the quarterback situation, where competition is heating up, and how the development of this position could be a game-changer for A&M.

Quarterback: The Key to A&M’s Success in 2025

The quarterback position is arguably the most important position in any football program, and for Texas A&M, it could be the difference between a successful season and another year of rebuilding. Heading into the spring, Texas A&M has a strong quarterback competition on its hands, with several players vying for the starting role. This spring is crucial for identifying which quarterback can take the reins and lead the team into 2025.

Marcel Reed’s Progression:

Marcel Reed, a promising dual-threat quarterback who was part of the 2024 recruiting class, is one of the most intriguing players to watch this spring. Coming out of high school, Reed was known for his athleticism, arm strength, and mobility. He had a successful career at Memphis, where he showcased his ability to make plays with both his legs and arm. Reed’s raw potential quickly caught the attention of Texas A&M’s coaching staff, and he entered the Aggies’ program with high expectations.

After spending his first season as a backup and learning under the tutelage of veteran quarterbacks, Reed has made substantial strides during the offseason. Head coach Mike Elko has praised Reed’s improvement in key areas, including his throwing mechanics, accuracy, and leadership. These improvements have positioned Reed as a legitimate candidate to take over as the starting quarterback in 2025.

Reed’s ability to make plays outside the pocket, combined with his development as a pocket passer, makes him a dual-threat option that could provide Texas A&M’s offense with a dynamic edge. His progress during the spring will be critical for solidifying his position as the leader of the offense. A strong showing in practice and scrimmages could give Reed the confidence and momentum he needs to become the Aggies’ starting quarterback.

The Other Contenders:

While Reed has made significant strides, he is not the only quarterback vying for the starting role. Texas A&M’s depth chart at quarterback is crowded, with several other players also fighting for a spot under center.

• Max Johnson: The veteran transfer from LSU brings experience to the quarterback room and is expected to be a major contender for the starting job. Johnson has spent time starting in the SEC, most notably for LSU, and has proven his ability to operate in a high-pressure environment. He is a strong, traditional pocket passer with solid accuracy and poise under pressure. Johnson’s experience could give him the edge, especially if A&M’s offense needs a more stable, mature presence behind center.
• Conner Weigman: Weigman, a highly touted 2024 recruit, enters spring camp with an impressive skill set. He has the potential to be a high-impact player, with the ability to make all the throws necessary in the SEC. Weigman has a powerful arm and good decision-making skills but will need to prove his consistency and leadership in spring practices.

The quarterback competition in spring will be critical for determining who starts in 2025. Each quarterback has his strengths, but Coach Elko will need to identify which player can best run his offense, lead the team, and execute under pressure. Ultimately, the Aggies need a quarterback who can stay healthy, execute the game plan, and be efficient in the SEC.

Offensive Line: A Foundation for Success

While the quarterback position is vital, the offensive line will play a huge role in the success of the Aggies’ offense in 2025. A strong offensive line is crucial for both pass protection and the running game, and Texas A&M has made significant efforts to bolster this unit.

Development and Depth:

In 2023, the Aggies’ offensive line struggled with consistency, particularly in pass protection. They allowed too many sacks and struggled to open up holes for the running game. However, in 2024, the coaching staff emphasized improving the offensive line, and there are signs that this unit will be better in 2025.

Texas A&M returns a solid group of offensive linemen, including some veterans who have started games in the SEC. Players like tackle Layden Robinson and guard Bryce Foster are expected to be key contributors. These veterans, combined with some promising young talent, give the Aggies a foundation to build upon this spring.

Coach Elko and offensive line coach Steve Addazio will work to develop the cohesion and consistency of the line this spring. The ability to protect the quarterback, whether it’s Reed, Johnson, or Weigman, will be critical for the offense’s success. Additionally, a strong offensive line will be essential for establishing the running game, allowing running back Devon Achane and others to find space and make plays.

Running Back: A Dynamic Threat

Texas A&M’s running game has long been a strength, and 2025 could be no different. The Aggies return a talented group of running backs, led by junior Devon Achane, who has the ability to take over games with his explosive speed and vision. Achane is coming off a breakout season and has the potential to become one of the top backs in the SEC.

Depth at Running Back:

While Achane will be the focal point of the Aggies’ rushing attack, Texas A&M has depth at the running back position. Players like Amari Daniels and Le’Veon Moss provide valuable depth and could play significant roles in 2025. The combination of Achane’s explosiveness and Daniels’ power running gives Texas A&M a diverse running game that can keep opposing defenses on their toes.

The success of the running back unit will be closely tied to the offensive line’s performance. If the offensive line can open holes and create space for the backs, Achane and company have the potential to put up big numbers in 2025. The Aggies’ ability to establish the run will be crucial to keeping defenses honest and allowing the quarterback to find success in the passing game.

Wide Receivers: Playmakers Needed

While the Aggies have a solid running game, the passing game will also need to step up in 2025. Texas A&M has talented wide receivers, but the team needs consistency and playmaking ability from the position.

Developing Wideouts:

The wide receiver room is an area where the Aggies have some exciting potential, but they still need to establish a go-to playmaker. Players like Evan Stewart and Moose Muhammad III have shown flashes of brilliance, but they must prove they can be consistent threats over the course of an entire season.

Stewart, a former top recruit, has the speed and agility to stretch the field and make plays downfield. Muhammad, who has shown strong hands and good route running, will need to continue developing his game to be a reliable target. These two receivers are the primary candidates to emerge as leaders in the receiving corps, but the spring will be an important time to develop chemistry with the quarterbacks and show that they can handle the pressure of SEC competition.

Defense: Elko’s Bread and Butter

While the offense is a major area of focus for the Aggies in the spring, Coach Mike Elko’s background as a defensive coordinator ensures that defense will be a priority for Texas A&M in 2025. The Aggies have one of the best defensive lines in the SEC, and Elko is known for his ability to develop strong, aggressive defensive units.

The defense should be solid in 2025, with key returnees in the secondary and the defensive line. Defensive ends like Shemar Turner and linebackers such as Chris Russell will provide a strong foundation for the Aggies’ defense. If the defense continues to perform at a high level, it will relieve some of the pressure on the offense to carry the team.