Nation’s No. 2 Running Back KJ Edwards Chooses Texas A&M, Hinting That Two Key Reasons Set the Aggies Apart From the Rest”…Read More….

COLLEGE STATION, Texas — In a major recruiting victory for the Texas A&M Aggies, standout running back KJ Edwards (Carthage HS, Texas) has officially committed to join the Aggies for the 2026 class. The 5-foot-10, ~180-pound dynamic junior declared his intent June 17, choosing A&M over finalists that included the Texas Longhorns, the LSU Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Edwards enters College Station as one of the most decorated backs in the 2026 recruiting cycle. According to 247Sports, he carries the No. 2 national running back ranking and is among the top prospects in the Lone Star State. His junior season stats were eye-opening: 1,789 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, along with 30 catches for 383 receiving yards and three more scores — all culminating in Offensive MVP honors in Carthage’s 4A Division II state championship win.

On the recruiting trail, Edwards compiled numerous offers from elite programs across the country — indicative of just how coveted he has become. Oregon, Georgia, Michigan, Tennessee, Miami, Notre Dame and others courted him aggressively.

Why he chose the Aggies

While Edwards has publicly cited “two key reasons” for his decision (without naming them in his initial statement), several reports suggest the relationship he built with A&M’s staff and the program’s vision under head coach Mike Elko played significant roles. Running backs coach Trooper Taylor was especially lauded for his connection with Edwards during the recruitment.

Impact on A&M’s class and program

Edwards’ commitment gives the Aggies another elite offensive weapon and helps solidify what is shaping up to be one of the nation’s strongest 2026 recruiting classes. Upon his pledge, A&M’s class jumped in the national rankings and now features multiple high-end skill-position talents.

From a program perspective, Edwards’ addition holds several implications:

Immediate depth and future impact: Given Edwards’ dynamic style as both a rusher and receiver, he offers a versatile threat the SEC-level defenses must account for.

Trend of successful in-state recruiting: Capturing a top Texas prospect strengthens A&M’s profile in historically competitive recruiting battles within the Lone Star State.

Elevating backfield tandem: Edwards joins fellow 2026 running back commit Jonathan Hatton Jr., giving the Aggies one of the deeper and more promising running back rooms in the country.

What to watch

While the commitment is a major step, Edwards is expected to sign during the early signing period and will begin the transition to college life and the demands of SEC competition. Key areas of focus will include:

Physical development: At roughly 180 lbs, Edwards will need to continue adding strength and adapt to the physicality of the collegiate game.

Adjusting to scheme and level of play: His high school success was dominant — but the SEC presents a new level of speed, complexity and competition.

Sustaining production and durability: With high expectations accompanying his ranking, durability and consistent performance will be critical.

Final thoughts

The Aggies’ ability to land KJ Edwards speaks volumes about their recruiting momentum, coaching relationships and program vision. For Edwards, the commitment marks the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with opportunity, intense competition and the chance to leave his mark in College Station. While he has pointed to two key reasons for choosing A&M, the full story behind those reasons will likely emerge as he arrives on campus and begins his collegiate career.

With Edwards now in the Maroon & White, A&M fans and college football watchers alike will keep close tabs on how this highly-rated recruit transitions from high school star to SEC standout. The headline said it all, but now the story is just beginning.