Projected Texas A&M football defense depth chart post-spring football

Projecting Texas A&M football’s spring defensive depth chart: Linebacker

1st unit: Taurean York, Alex Howard
2nd unit: Martrell Harris, Scooby Williams
3rd unit: Daymion Sanford, Tristan Jernigan

How do you replace a guy like Edgerrin Cooper? The well-heralded defender for the Aggies is now off to the NFL, leaving the folks in College Station with that very question.

Thankfully, his fellow starting LB in 2023, Taurean York, was only a true freshman last year. He proved to be extremely durable, extremely proficient, and an all-around stud in his reps last year. Though he was one of the lowest-rated players in the 2023 class, he has been one of the most productive thus far, and will doubtless continue to be as well.

I see York holding onto his spot, and I'm not sure anyone disagrees with me there. Alongside him, though, I think Alex Howard can make a statement. A transfer from Youngstown State, Howard has flown under the radar nationally, but I think he has the potential to break out in his final year of eligibility. Like York, Howard is a heady and solid (if a bit undersized) backer who will play aggressively and very seldom make the wrong read.

Martrell Harris's continued development is another storyline to watch here. Another plus athlete, Harris could force his way into the first team if he puts things together. I've listed Scooby Williams on the second team, though it remains to be seen if he is primarily used at LB or as an edge rusher (I'd favor him as the latter).

The crop of young LBs the Aggies brought to College Station in this previous class is impressive, but I'm maybe the highest on Jernigan. The battle for his signature was hotly-contested, but Elko held off Nick Saban (who had yet to retire) to bring Jernigan into the fold. I'm hopeful to see some big things out of him this spring.