Aggies Transfer Could Transform Texas A&M’s Defense in 2026

Texas A&M football needed more size, toughness and leadership at linebacker. Tulsa transfer Ray Coney may provide all three immediately.

The 6-2, 240-pound Coney enters the 2026 season positioned to start at middle linebacker and potentially wear the green-dot helmet as the Aggies’ defensive communicator.

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That would put him in charge of receiving the play call and organizing Texas A&M’s defense before every snap.

It’s a major responsibility for a newcomer, but Coney’s 2025 production suggests he’s prepared for it.

During his lone season at Tulsa, Coney piled up 128 tackles, two sacks and two pass breakups. Pro Football Focus gave him an 87.6 overall grade, placing him second among linebackers now competing in the SEC.

His work against the run was particularly impressive. Coney received an 87.6 run-defense grade, combining strong recognition with the power to defeat blockers and finish tackles.

New Texas A&M defensive coordinator Lyle Hemphill has already described him as a “thumper” and praised his athletic ability.

That’s exactly what the Aggies have been missing.

Texas A&M’s run defense was far too vulnerable last season, placing additional pressure on a linebacker room already dealing with injuries.

Scooby Williams struggled to stay available, allowing Daymion Sanford to earn an expanded role alongside Taurean York.

Sanford capitalized on the opportunity with a career-best season, recording 57 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and an interception.

With York and Williams now in the NFL, Sanford was expected to become the foundation of the rebuilt unit.

That plan appeared threatened when he suffered a fractured fibula during the Maroon & White Game and required surgery.

His recovery has moved faster than initially feared. Through nine preseason practices, Sanford has looked close to full strength, and both Mike Elko and Hemphill expect him to be available for the season opener against Missouri State.

A healthy Sanford playing beside Coney could dramatically change the middle of Texas A&M’s defense.

Rising sophomore Noah Mikhail also gives the Aggies another talented option, while several freshmen from the 2026 signing class provide depth and long-term upside.

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Linebackers coach Travis Williams should be comfortable developing the group. Two Arkansas linebackers he previously coached appeared alongside Coney in PFF’s highest-rated SEC rankings.

Coney transferred to Texas A&M hoping to strengthen his NFL résumé. If he becomes the Aggies’ defensive quarterback and helps repair their run defense, he won’t have to wait long to capture the attention of professional scouts.