Texas A&M sustained a blow they would have rather avoided today when Cam Coleman declared his intention to transfer to the Texas Longhorns over the Aggies, Texas Tech, and Alabama— but Mike Elko just made the perfect counter to Sarkisian's move in landing Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Horton.
Horton, who embarrassed Coleman and the Auburn Tigers during this past season's Iron Bowl, fills the need that the Aggies have had for a true X receiver with his 6'4" frame, and brings some of the surest hands in the nation as a pass-catcher. This is not only just what the Aggies need in a receiver, it comes so quickly after Coleman's commitment that it's a clear message from Elko— this is not a program that will be caught flat-footed while he's in charge.
The Aggies hosted Horton this past weekend along with several other key visitors as they hope to round out their portal class. The tall receiver, originally a Miami transfer, will have one year of eligibility remaining— and the Aggies will do whatever they can to put him on the KC Concepcion path to being a first-rounder.
Mike Elko shows he always has a plan after Cam Coleman leaves Aggies hanging
This is not only flawless execution by Elko on the front of filling the Aggies' needs, it shows that he's always going to have a plan. It makes sense that the Aggies made the pitch they needed to for Coleman but never got crazy with it, instead allowing the teams who were in worse positions to go at each other while A&M brought in a guy who's production has been just as notable.
Horton will still provide a great complement to Aggie receiver Mario Craver, who's slighter frame and elite speed will provide a threat both deep and on shallow routes. Horton will simply catch anything that's thrown his way in a way very similar to what we saw out of KC Concepcion this past season.
This is the perfect add to this receiver room, and the Aggies may have more on the way. They've hosted another Auburn receiver in Malcom Simmons very recently, and could make a play there now that Coleman has gone public with his decision. One thing is for certain, though— Elko won't be outmaneuvered in the long game.