Report of Texas A&M landing coordinator Mike Elko drawing immediate praise

Based on the early reactions to the news that Texas A&M is expected to hire Notre Dame defensive coordinator Mike Elko for the same position in College Station, it appears the Aggies are getting a great young coach.

After a disastrous 2016 campaign in South Bend, Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly dismissed defensive coordinator Brian Vangorder and replaced him with Elko. In his only season at Notre Dame, the former Wake Forest coordinator stabilized the Irish defense and helped the team achieve a 10-win season, which included wins over USC, Michigan State and LSU.

If Elko can help the Aggies finally beat LSU, he’ll be worth whatever price tag he comes with.

Following the news, which was initially reported by Billy Liucci of TexAgs, many rushed to provide their thoughts on the move:

What are the Aggies getting in Mike Elko? A young, top-tier X's and O's coordinator who is highly-respected in profession. Also impressed on the recruiting trail during his one season in South Bend.

— Billy Liucci (@billyliucci) January 4, 2018

Holy moly that’s a big get. https://t.co/0wpa6J30a0

— Stewart Mandel (@slmandel) January 4, 2018

This is a terrific hire by Jimbo Fisher. Mike Elko’s rep is stellar & and has been for years among his peers. He did great work at Wake & ND.

— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) January 4, 2018

SEC West lineup of defensive coordinators now includes Aranda, Elko, Shoop, Chavis, Steele and whatever Bama does.

— Dan Wolken (@DanWolken) January 4, 2018

If Texas A&M does indeed land Mike Elko, it's as good of a coordinator hire as you'll find this offseason. Outstanding teacher, outstanding scheme guy, outstanding evaluator and he's proven at Notre Dame he's an outstanding recruiter too.

— Barton Simmons (@bartonsimmons) January 4, 2018

A&M might have been outbid for Dave Aranda, but this is an excellent get for Jimbo. https://t.co/qQvSIuvEZf

— Chuck Cooperstein (@coopmavs) January 4, 2018