Texas A&M HC Mike Elko believes he'll produce double-digit 2026 NFL draft picks
Texas A&M HC Mike Elko believes he'll produce double-digit 2026 NFL draft picks
When examining how succesful a college football program has been under any head coach, the amount of NFL draft picks the following season is a solid indicator, noting development of talent at every position. During the 2025 NFL draft, Ohio State (14), Georgia (13), Texas (12) and Oregon (10) all produced double-digit draft selections, while Texas A&M's three picks were all in the first two rounds.
However, this was only due to the youth of the 2024 Texas A&M roster, while left tackle Trey Zuhn, right guard Ar'Maj Reed-Adams, and cornerback Will Lee III all opted to return for the 2025 season. Also, if senior running back Le'Veon Moss had not been injured against South Carolina, missing the rest of the year, he likely would have declared this offseason.
During Wednesday's Brazos Country Coach's Night, Texas A&M coach Mike Elko discussed a variety of topics, included his expectations regarding the amount of players on the 2025 roster who he believes will be selected in the 2026 NFL draft.
"When you look at the current roster, we project to have more NFL Draft picks on this 2025 roster than we've had in a long time. We project anywhere from 10 to 12 players to hear their name called in the 2026 draft."
Including all the names I mentioned above, former NC State wide receiver KC Concepcion is another name that could hear his name called, while several new edge rushers, led by Cashius Howell, could end up being first, second, or third round selections.
If this is the case, that means Texas A&M would be coming off its best finish during the Mike Elko era, marking the start of what is hopefully a very successful tenure.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
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