Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko has utilized the transfer portal more in one month than former head coach Jimbo Fisher in his coaching career in College Station (TX). Already landing seven players through the portal, another productive defender has entered his name, and Elko needs to pick up the phone A.S.A.P.
On Saturday, former stand-out South Carolina linebacker Stone Blanton announced his departure after two seasons with the program, as the Mississippi native is looking for a new home and will receive plenty of offers to stay in the SEC. Receiving an offer from A&M as a three-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, Elko is more than familiar with Blanton’s ability during his time as A&M’s defensive coordinator from 2017-2021.
After an understandably slow first season, Blanton shot out of a cannon during the 2023 campaign, recording 52 tackles (31 solo tackles), one sack, one forced fumble, and an interception.
After the departure of star junior linebacker Edgerrin Cooper to the 2024 NFL Draft weighs on the starting rotation, freshman LB Taurean York has already shown his value in spades but needs more help as senior backer Chris Russell Jr. will also leave in 2024, leaving former Youngstown State LB Alex Howard as a potential starter opposite York.
— Stone Blanton (@Stoneblanton7) December 24, 2023
Knowing Blanton’s versatile skillset, Elko needs more speed at the second level in coverage, with Texas and Oklahoma entering the SEC next season. With two years of experience, I can safely say Blanton would earn a starting spot as soon as fall camp.
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