The Texas A&M Aggies are having no problems on the recruiting trail. Mike Elko brought in the nation’s No. 9 class in 2025 and currently has the No. 9 class for 2026. Looking even further ahead, his Aggies also boast the top class for 2027. But when an opportunity presents itself, one must jump at it. And Texas A&M did just that on Tuesday morning.
According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, the Aggies are hiring former Arkansas defensive coordinator Travis Williams as their linebackers coach. Williams, 42, was in Fayetteville for roughly 2-and-a-half years before being fired during the 2025 season. As Zenitz notes, he is regarded as one of the top recruiters in college football.
Prior to his time at Arkansas, Williams worked at Auburn (2009-11, 2014-20) and UCF (2021-22). He held various roles, including defensive analyst and linebackers coach, over the course of his Tigers’ tenure.
When at Auburn as a player, Williams earned 2-time All-SEC second team recognition. He spent one season in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons (2007), recording 7 tackles. His biggest career highlight was a 37-yard run on a fake punt in Week 16 of that schedule. His conversion made him Atlanta’s leading rusher in the game.
Williams will presumably get started working for the Aggies as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Elko and Co. will continue preparing for their first-round College Football Playoff tussle with Miami. Kickoff for the contest is set for 12:00 p.m. E.T. on Saturday, Dec. 20 (ABC).
