Mike Elko drops major hint about 2025 starter at defensive position of dire need

It looks like the head man for the Aggies is pleased with what he's seen out of a newcomer at the safety position.
Oct 5, 2024; College Station, Texas, USA; SEC Nation host Laura speaks with Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko prior to the game between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Missouri Tigers at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images.
Oct 5, 2024; College Station, Texas, USA; SEC Nation host Laura speaks with Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko prior to the game between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Missouri Tigers at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images. | Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

Texas A&M football could see a new face as major contributor at position of major need in 2025

It's no secret that the Aggies had some major issues on defense down the stretch of last year. Though Mike Elko had been brought in as a defensive stalwart and a guy who had improved that side of the ball wherever he'd went, the latter part of 2024 saw the Aggies really falter on that front.

It was the pass defense that was the most noticeable culprit in that respect. The Aggies had confidence in their group coming into the year with a veteran Bryce Anderson and an ascendant Dalton Brooks leading the charge, but Anderson in particular failed to live up to expectations.

Even though both Brooks and Anderson are coming back next year, many fans consider the safety position an open competition at this point. Of course, Elko considers all positions open competitions in spring ball, but this one seems to be so more than most.

In that vein, it was good to hear this specific answer out of Elko after yesterday's Maroon and White game:

Davis was a true freshman last year for the Aggies, and he drew eyes in his very limited playing time, laying down a memorable hit against McNeese in one of his few snaps all year.

The Aggies could use a guy like Davis stepping up, given that some of their depth, such as Trey Jones, are on the way out. Marcus Ratcliffe will of course have a say in things, as he was a heavy part of the rotation as well, but Davis's recruiting profile was that of a guy who could be a legitimate top-level prospect if things go well.

This progress report is an unabashed plus for the young Aggie player. Here's hoping he continues this trend and we see him log some time in the maroon and white this fall.