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A&M Football Signs 2026 Recruiting Class

Texas A&M Football team meeting with recruits

Rock Hill, SC, December 4, 2025

The Texas A&M University football program has successfully signed 26 high school athletes as part of their 2026 recruiting class during the early signing period. This class is notable for including one five-star recruit, 17 four-star recruits, and eight three-star recruits, showcasing the Aggies’ ambition to build a competitive roster. Key signings include Tristian Givens, Brandon Arrington, and KJ Edwards, among others. Head coach Mike Elko emphasizes the importance of relationship-building with recruits, marking a significant strategy change for the program.

Rock Hill, SC – A&M Football Signs 2026 Recruiting Class

The Texas A&M University football program made significant strides on December 3, 2025, by signing 26 high school athletes during the early signing period for the 2026 recruiting class. This ambitious class features one five-star recruit, 17 four-star recruits, and eight three-star recruits, indicating the Aggies’ drive to excel in upcoming seasons.

Key Signings

  • Tristian Givens – This five-star edge rusher from Carver High School in Columbus, Georgia, is ranked No. 6 nationally at his position.
  • Brandon Arrington – A standout four-star athlete from Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley, California, Arrington holds the No. 2 athlete ranking in the class.
  • KJ Edwards – This four-star running back from Carthage High School in Carthage, Texas, stands out as the No. 3 nationally ranked player at his position.
  • Chance Collins – A four-star safety from Mansfield Timberview High School in Arlington, Texas, Collins boasts a national ranking of No. 22 among safeties.
  • Aaron Gregory – A four-star wide receiver from Douglas County High School in Douglasville, Georgia, Gregory is ranked No. 21 nationally among wide receivers.

Recruiting Strategy and Class Composition

Head coach Mike Elko underscores the value of fostering strong relationships with recruits. This 2026 class marks a pivotal moment for Texas A&M as it’s the first instance where the coaching staff has been able to build relationships and evaluate talent on an equal footing. The class is geographically diverse, pulling talent from Texas, Georgia, and California, enabling the program to tap into a mix of regional strengths.

National and Conference Rankings

According to the 247Sports Composite team rankings, Texas A&M’s 2026 recruiting class currently holds the No. 9 position nationally and ranks No. 5 within the Southeastern Conference (SEC). This competitive standing illustrates the university’s efforts to elevate its football program within one of the most prestigious conferences in college football.

Impact on the Program

The recruits from this recent signing are expected to enhance both offensive and defensive units, reinforcing Texas A&M’s roster in preparation for tougher competition in the SEC and nationwide. The infusion of talent bodes well for the program, as these athletes are poised to make immediate contributions.

Looking Ahead

Following the early signing period, Texas A&M will remain vigilant in its recruitment efforts, with the traditional signing period approaching in February. The coaching staff aims to secure further talent to provide additional depth and enhance the overall program.

Conclusion

The successful recruitment of top-tier talents underscores Texas A&M’s commitment to building a competitive football program. As the Aggies look to strengthen their roster further, community support for these athletes and the program remains vital. Fans and local supporters are encouraged to stay engaged as this promising class heads into the next phase of their football careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 2026 recruiting class for Texas A&M?
The 2026 recruiting class is significant for Texas A&M as it includes 26 high school athletes, highlighted by one five-star recruit, 17 four-star recruits, and eight three-star recruits, positioning the Aggies as a formidable contender in the upcoming seasons.
Who are some of the top recruits in this class?
Some of the top recruits in this class include Tristian Givens, a five-star edge rusher from Carver High School in Columbus, Georgia; Brandon Arrington, a four-star athlete from Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley, California; and KJ Edwards, a four-star running back from Carthage High School in Carthage, Texas.
How does this class rank nationally and within the SEC?
According to 247Sports Composite team rankings, Texas A&M’s 2026 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 9 nationally and No. 5 within the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
What is the expected impact of this recruiting class on the Texas A&M football program?
The addition of these top-tier recruits is expected to bolster Texas A&M’s roster, enhancing both offensive and defensive units, and the Aggies aim to leverage this talent to compete at a higher level in the SEC and nationally.
Will Texas A&M continue to add to the 2026 recruiting class?
Yes, with the early signing period concluded, Texas A&M will continue to monitor and potentially add to the 2026 recruiting class during the traditional signing period in February, with the coaching staff focused on securing additional talent to further strengthen the program.

Recruit Position High School State National Ranking
Tristian Givens Edge Rusher Carver High School Georgia No. 6 nationally at position
Brandon Arrington Athlete Mount Miguel High School California No. 2 athlete in class
KJ Edwards Running Back Carthage High School Texas No. 3 nationally at position
Chance Collins Safety Mansfield Timberview High School Texas No. 22 nationally among safeties
Aaron Gregory Wide Receiver Douglas County High School Georgia No. 21 nationally among wide receivers

Now Happening on X

  • @WSOCTV (November 28, 2025, 10:30 AM) One person was killed and another injured in a shooting in Rock Hill, according to police reports from the incident early Friday morning. View on X
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  • @WCCBCharlotte (November 28, 2025, 4:17 PM) An 18-year-old was killed and another man injured in a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex early Friday, with investigations ongoing. View on X
  • @RHHerald (November 28, 2025, 11:10 AM) A teen is dead and a man wounded following a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex, according to local police statements. View on X
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  • @RHHerald (December 1, 2025, 3:50 PM) Recent SC killings in Lancaster and Rock Hill are still unsolved following back-to-back shootings, as investigations continue without leads. View on X
  • @WYFFNews4 (November 29, 2025, 12:30 AM) One person dead and another injured after a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex, with emergency services responding overnight. View on X
  • @Queen_City_News (November 28, 2025, 10:18 AM) Breaking: A man was killed and another seriously injured after shots were fired into a Rock Hill apartment complex, police confirm. View on X

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STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL

The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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