You would think these types of announcements are unexpected, but in the portal era, nothing is a guarantee anymore.
Texas A&M linebacker Tristan Jernigan has decided to leave Texas A&M and put his name in the transfer portal. This is also unexpected because of the names that won't have eligibility next season, like Scooby Williams.
The announcement is surprising for sure, because Jernigan looked to possibly become the next reliable Texas A&M linebacker, especially after the hiring of Elijah Robinson after the Miami loss.
Texas A&M LB Tristan Jernigan is entering the transfer portal
BREAKING: Texas A&M LB Tristan Jernigan is entering the @TransferPortal, he tells @On3Sports
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 22, 2025
The 6’1 230 LB totaled 14 tackles (6 solo) and 3 TFL in his time with the Aggies
Will have 3 years of eligibility lefthttps://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/GEe34ooOSs
Jernigan first appeared with the Aggies in 2024, and while he didn't get much playing time in 2025, it was only because Taurean York and Daymion Sanford were holding the fort down pretty well. This had nothing to do with Jernigan's efforts. It was because Sanford was that good at holding Jernigan on the bench.
With Williams out of eligibility, and York possibly on his way to the 2026 NFL Draft, the way things are structured could've put Jernigan in line to hold a full-time spot. He decided not to wait any longer, and now, he's off to the portal.
The departure of Jay Bateman could've been a scapegoat for Jernigan, as he didn't really see the field all that much while Bateman's defense was tearing up the field at times. It would've been nice to see Jernigan give Texas A&M a chance in 2026, but the portal is always an option.
Sometimes, you've got to do what you've got to do. In this case, a fan favorite of Texas A&M is taking matters into his own hands and leaving. Time will only tell if he makes the right decision, but all A&M fans can do is support him in deciding to better himself.