Texas A&M Football: 3 unsung heroes of the 2021 season

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Tyree Johnson, Texas A&M football Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Texas A&M Football Unsung Hero No. 1: LB Aaron Hansford

With the departure of Buddy Johnson, sixth-year linebacker Aaron Hansford didn’t just inherit his former teammate’s number — he inherited the responsibilities of being the top linebacker on Jimbo Fisher’s Texas A&M football team.

And so far, he has thrived in that role.

On the year, he has recorded 55 tackles, which ties him atop the Aggies’ defense in total tackles. Hansford is a classic example of a player who doesn’t play with sheer skill and power but uses his work ethic to get things done. That’s not to say he’s not athletic — he is — but the work he puts in shows up.

This was on full display against South Carolina when a muffed snap went over the Gamecocks’ quarterback’s head. The quarterback was closer to the ball by a full five yards — still, Hansford outran him on an effort play and recovered the fumble. The Aggies didn’t need it, but this was a huge momentum play.

This gave him a fumble recovery on the season to go along with his three pass deflections and two sacks. Aaron Hansford is quietly putting together the best season of any Texas A&M football player this year.