Texas A&M’s 2025 spring football preview highlights the need to develop more contributors at linebacker for defensive depth.

As the Texas A&M Aggies gear up for the 2025 spring football season, much of the focus will fall on the continued development of their defense. Texas A&M has long been known for producing dominant defensive players, and 2025 looks to be no different. However, one area of particular concern is the linebacker position, where the Aggies are looking to develop more contributors to deepen their defensive unit. While the team has some key pieces in place, there’s a need for growth and maturation from younger players and for more competition to push the starters. This spring is crucial for the future of the Aggies’ linebacker corps.

Linebacker play has historically been a cornerstone of successful defenses, and the Aggies’ defensive scheme is no exception. The linebackers are responsible for a variety of tasks: stopping the run, providing pass coverage, and rushing the passer. They are often the players who set the tone for the defense, and their ability to make plays directly impacts the success of the team. This article will dive deep into Texas A&M’s linebacker situation heading into the 2025 spring football season, analyzing the current roster, the players to watch, and the strategies the Aggies will need to implement to ensure that they are prepared for the challenges ahead.

Linebacker Play at Texas A&M: Historical Context

Texas A&M has long been home to some of the most talented linebackers in college football. From guys like Von Miller and Michael Johnson to recent stars like Buddy Johnson and Tyrel Dodson, the Aggies have had a legacy of strong linebacker play. These players have consistently been among the best at their respective positions, often earning All-SEC honors and becoming key figures in the team’s defensive schemes.

Under head coach Jimbo Fisher, the Aggies have focused on building a well-rounded defense, and linebackers are integral to that vision. Fisher’s defensive coordinators emphasize a versatile and aggressive approach, where linebackers need to do more than just stop the run; they need to be able to drop into coverage, rush the passer, and cover ground sideline to sideline. In this system, having a deep and talented linebacker corps is essential for Texas A&M to remain competitive in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the most demanding conferences in the country.

While the Aggies have had some strong individual performances in recent seasons, they have struggled with consistency at linebacker. In 2024, the team saw a departure of several veteran linebackers, leaving some holes that need to be filled. The 2025 spring season will be key for the Aggies to identify and develop those players who can step up and fill these gaps, ensuring that the defense remains strong in the coming season.

The 2025 Spring Linebacker Depth Chart

As the Aggies head into the 2025 spring season, there are a few returning players and a number of incoming recruits and transfers that will help shape the linebacker unit. The depth chart will be fluid as players compete for starting spots, and the coaching staff will likely experiment with different combinations to find the best fit. Let’s take a look at the linebacker position groups heading into the spring.

Returning Starters

1. Chris Russell Jr. (Senior)
   Chris Russell Jr. is expected to be one of the key figures in Texas A&M’s linebacker corps heading into 2025. A seasoned veteran, Russell has the leadership skills and experience that the Aggies will lean on in the upcoming season. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 245 pounds, Russell is an athletic linebacker who has the ability to contribute both in the run game and in pass coverage. Over the past few seasons, he has shown the ability to make plays all over the field, and his versatility will be invaluable as the team develops other contributors at linebacker.

   In 2024, Russell tallied a solid number of tackles, including several key stops on third down and in critical moments. He’ll be expected to step up as the leader of the group in 2025, mentoring younger players while continuing to produce on the field.

2. Edgerrin Cooper (Junior)
   Edgerrin Cooper is another key returner for the Aggies. A fast and aggressive linebacker, Cooper is known for his ability to cover ground quickly and for his knack for getting to the ball carrier. His speed and tackling ability have made him one of the more promising linebackers in the SEC, and he could be poised for a breakout season in 2025. Cooper is a versatile player who can contribute in coverage as well as in run support. The Aggies will need him to continue to develop his skills and be a consistent force for the defense.

   Heading into the 2025 spring season, Cooper will need to work on improving his awareness and decision-making in coverage. If he can make strides in these areas, he could become a leader for the linebacking corps and an even more impactful presence on the field.

Young Players to Watch

1. Anthony Hill Jr. (Freshman)
   One of the most exciting additions to Texas A&M’s linebacker group is true freshman Anthony Hill Jr. A highly-ranked recruit, Hill brings a wealth of talent and potential to the Aggies’ defense. Hill’s combination of size (6-foot-2, 220 pounds) and speed makes him a perfect fit for the linebacker position in Jimbo Fisher’s defensive system. During his high school career, Hill showed incredible ability to read the game and make plays behind the line of scrimmage. His tackling ability and pass-rushing skills make him an intriguing prospect for the Aggies.

   While Hill is still adjusting to the speed of college football, he’s expected to compete for a starting role during the 2025 spring practices. If he can pick up the playbook quickly and adjust to the higher level of competition, Hill has the potential to be a game-changer for Texas A&M.

2. Keldrick Falk (Sophomore)
   Keldrick Falk, a sophomore, is another player who could see a larger role in the Aggies’ linebacker rotation in 2025. Falk, who has impressed in his early years with Texas A&M, is known for his versatility and physicality. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 240 pounds, Falk has the size and strength to be a standout in both the run game and as a pass rusher. In 2024, Falk showed flashes of his potential and made key contributions in several games. Heading into the 2025 season, he’s expected to take on a more prominent role and could emerge as a breakout star.

Transfers and Newcomers

1. Jamarion Miller (Transfer)
   Jamarion Miller, a transfer from a junior college, will be looking to make an immediate impact in the linebacker room. Miller is a physical, hard-hitting linebacker who brings a toughness and aggression to the group. While he’ll have to adjust to the level of competition in the SEC, Miller has the ability to provide depth and add a level of physicality that the Aggies may need in 2025. His experience at the junior college level could help him transition quickly, and if he can acclimate to the speed of the game, he could provide a significant boost to the linebacker unit.

Key Areas of Focus for the Aggies’ Linebackers in 2025

As the Aggies head into the 2025 spring football season, there are several key areas where the linebackers need to improve to ensure the defense is operating at a high level.

1. Consistency in Tackling

Tackling is perhaps the most fundamental skill for a linebacker. While the Aggies have shown the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and disrupt plays, they have struggled at times with consistency in tackling. Poor tackling in key moments can lead to missed opportunities and big plays for opposing offenses. In 2025, the linebacker corps must focus on improving their ability to wrap up and make solid, consistent tackles.

2. Pass Coverage

As offenses continue to evolve, the ability of linebackers to cover running backs and tight ends in the passing game becomes increasingly important. The Aggies need linebackers who can drop into coverage and defend against short passes and screens. This will be a major area of focus during the 2025 spring season, as the team looks to develop linebackers who can contribute not only as run defenders but also as coverage players.

3. Rushing the Passer

In Jimbo Fisher’s defensive scheme, linebackers are often called upon to rush the passer on passing downs. The ability to apply pressure on the quarterback is a key factor in disrupting the offense and forcing turnovers. In 2025, the Aggies will look to develop more pass-rushing threats from the linebacker position. Whether it’s from the edge or as an inside linebacker, adding more pressure to opposing quarterbacks will be critical for the defense’s success.

4. Depth and Rotation

With several experienced players and a promising group of young talent, Texas A&M will need to develop linebacker depth and create a solid rotation. It’s essential that players at all levels of the depth chart are ready to contribute and step up when needed. A well-rounded, deep linebacker unit will allow the Aggies to stay fresh and effective throughout the season.