While Texas A&M football has struggled to meet expectations this season, several members of the Aggies' 2026 recruiting class have provided reasons for optimism. Despite the team's struggles, the emergence of young talent has been one of the more encouraging developments.
The Aggies enter their bye week at 4-4 overall following Saturday's 31-20 loss to Alabama. Despite the disappointing record, head coach Mike Elko has received meaningful contributions from multiple true freshmen on both sides of the ball, with several already earning valuable playing time against SEC competition.
From explosive offensive playmakers to promising young defenders and offensive linemen, here are five true freshmen who have stood out through eight games.
1. KJ Edwards – Running back
Edwards has been one of Texas A&M's biggest bright spots, leading the team with 360 rushing yards on 55 carries while averaging 6.5 yards per attempt. The former Carthage standout has scored two rushing touchdowns, both against Arkansas. He also rushed for a season-high 116 yards against The Citadel and led A&M with 43 rushing yards against Alabama.
His explosiveness, vision and ability to create opportunities in the open field have made him a valuable addition to the Aggies' backfield. As the offense searches for consistency, Edwards has demonstrated why he could become a significant part of Texas A&M's future.
2. Aaron Gregory − Wide receiver
Gregory has emerged as a promising receiving threat, recording 11 receptions for 166 yards and three touchdowns through eight games. His breakout performance came against The Citadel, when he caught six passes for 94 yards and two scores, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and make plays in the passing game.
At 6-foot-2, Gregory brings size and playmaking potential to the receiving corps. As the Aggies look for more reliable production through the air, his early contributions could lead to a bigger role over the final four games.
3. Carsyn Baker − Running back
Baker has made the most of his opportunities, rushing for 155 yards and three touchdowns on 38 carries this season. The 6-foot, 210-pound freshman provides a physical presence in the backfield, complementing the explosiveness of fellow freshman KJ Edwards. Baker has also demonstrated an ability to contribute in short-yardage situations and near the goal line.
He rushed for 54 yards against The Citadel, offering another glimpse of his potential. With both freshmen gaining experience, Texas A&M appears to have a promising young foundation at running back.
4. Tamarion Watkins – Linebacker
Watkins has begun establishing himself as a promising young contributor on defense, earning valuable playing time during his first collegiate season. The 6-foot-3, 228-pound linebacker recorded four tackles against The Citadel and continued seeing action against Alabama, where he registered an assisted tackle.
Although his role remains limited compared with the team's veteran linebackers, Watkins has shown encouraging potential as he adjusts to the speed and physicality of college football. His development could add depth at linebacker as the Aggies look to the future.
5. Sam Roseborough − Offensive lineman
Roseborough has provided an encouraging glimpse of Texas A&M's future along the offensive line, gaining valuable experience against both nonconference and SEC competition. The 6-foot-3, 303-pound freshman started at left guard against The Citadel before receiving additional playing time against Alabama.
Roseborough played 26 offensive snaps against the Crimson Tide and earned an impressive 82.9 Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grade, highlighting his potential in pass protection. As he continues developing at the collegiate level, his early opportunities suggest he could become a key piece of Texas A&M's offensive line in the coming seasons.
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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Which Texas A&M true freshmen have stood out through eight games?
Source: Yahoo Sports






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