Spring practice begins this week for Texas A&M, and Mike Elko got a chance to speak with the media ahead of that.
For 2026, Texas A&M is trying to make the 'third times the charm' mantra come true this season, as Texas A&M has had a chance to appear in an SEC Championship, but came up short against the Longhorns in back-to-back seasons.
Marcel Reed hasn't been at his best when the time has mattered most. He knows that, and fans know it too. Elko has some real confidence in Reed, and fans can only hope it all comes true.
Mike Elko says Marcel Reed's best is going to come in 2026
Mike Elko on Marcel Reed: "We're looking forward to him consistently being at his best more often."
— TexAgs (@TexAgs) March 17, 2026
We didn't see the best version of Reed in the College Football Playoff against Miami, and in fact, we have seen the worst version of him. Reed went 25-for-39 on completions, 237 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. With the amount of NFL talent the Aggies are expected to have drafted this year, this was a perfect opportunity for Texas A&M to get it done.
It wasn't all on Reed, though. Akheem Mesidor and Rueben Bain Jr. were feasting for a combined 4.5 sacks against Reed, and Trey Zuhn III didn't seem to have an answer. Of course, A&M fans wouldn't want to replace Reed. After all, who would they really feel comfortable replacing him with?
All fans are asking for is more consistent Reed to follow through with what A&M is trying to do. He's played in big games already. He has experience under the bright lights, and he knows what to expect.
Nobody's asking him to play perfectly, but the Miami game was a reality check that Reed's consistency needs to be talked about. He's had bright moments before, like completely taking over Baton Rouge during LSU's lowest point last season.
Those are the kind of moments that Reed needs to have more of. Elko seems to think that can happen in 2026.