Questions surrounded Texas A&M’s linebacker unit heading into their spring program, but after a promising performance in the Aggies’ exhibition game, alongside a big addition via the transfer portal, this position has a nice mix of talent to make an impact both now and into the future.
Heading into the Maroon and White spring game, Chris Russell Jr. and Edgerrin Cooper were handed the starting reigns for this unit and that same belief hasn’t changed. Both of these two bring much-needed experience to a position that was lacking depth through spring.
Russell is solid as the Mike linebacker, but he’s arguably better suited when playing on the move and blitzing the opposing quarterback. Cooper has excellent closing speed and can make plays in the open field. However, at 6-3 and 230 lbs, he’s not particularly imposing when it comes to his size, which means he could struggle when taking on bigger blockers.
Enter the true x-factor with the addition of Jurriente Davis, who was ranked as the No. 1 transfer portal LB out of Jackson State. While the Aggies have some very capable starters and promising youth for the future, this unit needed a splash via the transfer portal and they got one with Davis.
As we’ve covered here at Aggies Wire, Davis’s tape shows a player that thrives as an off-the-ball linebacker, primarily at the Will position in the Aggies’ 4-2-5 defensive scheme. He’s equipped to tackle what’s in front of him and provide a solid pass rush when needed thanks to his speed and downhill quickness.
Making the jump from FCS to FBS competition is a significant one, make no mistake about it, so the transition will be key to observe for Davis. I don’t think it’ll be a case of “baptism by fire” as Davis’ talent and experience should make the adjustment a smooth one.
While the trio of Russell, Cooper, and Davis shows promise for the Maroon and White in the near term, the Aggies also have a handful of bright prospects that should develop nicely in the future. Second-year Martrell Harris flashed his closing speed in the spring game, while first-year Daymion Sanford is a converted pass rusher who has length and can run.
Freshman Taurean York is a little undersized when it comes to mass (217 lbs for now), but he should easily bulk up in due time. Additionally, he has a nice grasp of the defense and he’s proven useful in coverage as one of the bright spots called out by the coaching staff during spring practice.
With still a few days left in the transfer portal it remains to be seen whether any more additions will be made to this unit. If not, then the Aggies have a promising group headlined by veterans that should make an impact this season, followed by some promising talent for the future.
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