Depth Chart Thursday: Rebuilding the Trenches and Surrounding Marcel Reed in College Station

Welcome to another edition of Depth Chart Thursday. As the Texas A&M Aggies navigate Spring Ball & Recruiting 2026, head coach Mike Elko faces the critical task of filling key voids left by NFL departures while capitalizing on the momentum of last year's 11-2 season and the program's first-ever College Football Playoff appearance.

The Quarterback Room

There is no controversy under center. Marcel Reed is the undisputed QB1 for the Aggies. Coming off a historic 2025 campaign that ended in a hard-fought 10-3 CFP First Round loss to Miami, Reed remains the anchor of the offense. Behind him, the depth chart features Brady Hart and Eli Morcos, who both saw action in the Maroon vs. White spring game on April 18. New offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins will be tasked with maximizing Reed's potential.

Revamping the Offensive Line

The most pressing position battle lies in the trenches. Texas A&M lost four key offensive linemen to the 2026 NFL Draft, including Chase Bisontis, Trey Zuhn III, Dametrious Crownover, and Ar'maj Reed-Adams. To protect Reed, Elko and his staff hit the transfer portal aggressively. Expect incoming transfers Wilkin Formby, Tyree Adams, Coen Echols, and Trovon Baugh to heavily contest for starting roles alongside returning stalwart Mark Nabou. The chemistry developed here during spring practices will dictate the ceiling of Wiggins' offensive scheme.

Weapons on the Perimeter and Backfield

Surrounding Reed with dynamic playmakers is a clear priority. Returning starter Mario Craver brings continuity to the receiving corps, while transfer Isaiah Horton is projected to make an immediate impact on the outside. In the backfield, returning starter Rueben Owens remains a crucial piece of the puzzle, providing stability as the new-look offensive line gels.

Defensive Outlook

On the other side of the ball, newly promoted defensive coordinator Lyle Hemphill is evaluating a revamped unit. The departure of standouts like Cashius Howell, Tyler Onyedim, Albert Regis, and Will Lee III to the NFL means there are massive shoes to fill. Returning starters Dalton Brooks and Daymion Sanford will anchor the defense, while transfer portal additions like Rickey Gibson, Anto Saka, and C.J. Mims are locked in fierce competitions to secure starting spots on the depth chart.

With the Maroon's thrilling last-second victory in the spring game in the rearview mirror, the picture is slowly coming into focus. Stay tuned as Elko finalizes his depth chart heading into the remainder of the offseason.