Texas A&M might need to go all-in on Florida State transfer defensive end

Texas A&M HC Mike Elko might need to break the bank for one of the top pass rushers in the transfer portal

Texas A&M has brought in six players from the transfer portal this offseason, including former Nebraska tight end Nate Boerkircher, who will enhance the team’s blocking for both pass and run protection.

For those upset with the Aggies’ lack of success in landing defensive linemen from the portal, patience is key, as Coach Mike Elko and his staff signed defensive end Nic Scourton and several other defenders in early January last offseason, which could be the case this offseason over the next couple of weeks.

However, it’s fair to be worried that Elko and his staff have likely been outbid concerning several defensive end transfer options, including former Purdue Will Heldt, who committed to Clemson on Thursday afternoon. Heldt’s visit to Texas A&M was seemingly successful, but this move made sense given the Tiger’s tracker record of developing defensive linemen.

Nevertheless, plenty of DL options are available in the portal, including former Florida State defensive end Patrick Payton, looking for a new home to play his final collegiate season.

Through three seasons, Payton was the 2022 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, recording 109 tackles, 16 sacks, 32 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and 12 pass deflections.

If healthy, Payton would be an immediate plug-and-play option to replace Nic Scourton’s lost production while taking the pressure off incoming senior DL Cashius Howell.

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