Latest news with #JayBateman
USA Today
22-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Texas A&M is still 'in play' for 2026 5-star safety out of Mississippi
Texas A&M is still in pursuit of one of the top safety prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, even after landing four-stars Chance Collins and Tylan Wilson this month, as five-star Bralan Womack is set to announce his commitment on August 21, and according to one source, the Aggies remain in the mix despite two teams standing out late. Texas A&M defensive coordinator Jay Bateman and defensive back coach Jordan Peterson have been two of the hottest recruiters in the country this summer, building strong relationships with every linebacker and defensive back commit in the 2026 class. On Monday, 247Sports insider Tom Loy provided more insight on Womack's recruiting journey, stating that while Auburn and Ohio State enter next month with the "most confidence" to land the standout DB, Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko and Jay Bateman are still clearly in the mix and work overtime behind the scenes. "All four schools remain firmly in the mix. Coach Mike Elko and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman have Texas A&M in play, as discussions continue behind the scenes." Ohio State has received a 247Sports crystal ball prediction to land Womack, which would not be surprising at all, given the program's past success in developing safety prospects, including future first-round NFL draft selection Caleb Downs, who is entering his final season with the Buckeyes. Womack reportedly models his game after Downs, so Ohio State will likely remain the slight leader in his recruitment heading into August. Still, after landing four-star running back KJ Edwards and four-star safety/linebacker Tamarion Watkins, who were previously favored to commit elsewhere, Elko and his staff should never be counted out. According to 247Sports, Womack is currently positioned as the 13th-ranked prospect, the No. 1-ranked safety prospect, and No. 2-ranked prospect in Mississippi. 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.
USA Today
28-01-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
All signs point to Texas A&M DC Jay Bateman returning for the 2025 season
The latter half of Texas A&M's 2024 season revolved around defensive coordinator Jay Bateman's questionable play-calling and lack of second-half adjustments that led to multiple losses this season, including the Las Vegas Bowl loss to USC. However, outside the Texas A&M fan base, Bateman was not seen as a problem, even earning a Broyles Award nomination for the top assistant in college football. Texas A&M's defense finished 63rd overall but 90th in passing yards allowed, which is a significant weakness down the stretch. Still, A&M's rush defense improved but fell off before ending 43rd. It was the only defense area that improved under Bateman, so it's safe to say the list of positives is small. Going into the offseason, it was assumed that Bateman would return, as most assistant coaches don't get fired after one season. However, coach Mike Elko hired former James Madison DC Lyle Hemphill to the 2025 staff last week, leading to rumors of Bateman leaving for another DC position. Over the last few days, rumors regarding Bateman being directly connected to Virginia Tech's defensive coordinator job opening nearly came to fruition until ESPN CFB insider Pete Thamel reported that the Hokies are targeting Arizona Cardinals linebacker coach Sam Siefkes for the job. While Jay Bateman's popularity among the fan base is divided, the news that Mike Elko will likely call defensive plays next season places him in an odd spot. However, given his recruiting prowess and vast coaching experience, Bateman is still a valuable coaching staff member. Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
