TEXAS A&M POSITION PREVIEW: Defensive Tackles

With Fall Camp well underway, we continue our 2024 position preview series. Today we talk about the defensive tackles – the anchor point of any defense.

Who did we lose?

• The Aggies lose two extremely talented defensive tackles and starters in Walter Nolen and McKinnley Jackson. Jackson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft while Nolen transferred within the SEC to Ole Miss.
• The Aggies also lost Isaiah Raikes who initially transferred to USC at the beginning of spring before ending up at Auburn.

Who do we bring back?

• Albert Regis and DJ Hicks: Regis and Hicks are two of the biggest pieces returning to the interior of the defensive line at Texas A&M. Though the losses of Nolen and Jackson will be felt, Texas A&M should still feel confident in the level of talent available. Hicks in particular has all the makings of a special player, and I only believe in him more after seeing him in action last season.
• Shemar Turner: Turneris set to make the transition to the interior of the defensive line full-time. He should be a force at the three-tech – a position that feels like a more natural fit for him. Additionally, his speed should give him an edge on the interior.
• Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy: While GBD has had trouble staying healthy in his career at Texas A&M, the former five-star recruit showed flashes of what made him such a highly-rated prospect in the Texas Bowl. Provided he can stay healthy, I expect him to be a playmaker on the interior in 2024.

What other names should we know?

• Rodas Johnson: Coming in as a transfer from Wisconsin, Rodas Johnson figures to be in the rotation at defensive tackle. Johnson had three tackles for loss for the Badgers last year.
• Dealyn Evans: Incoming freshman Dealyn Evans projects to the interior of the defensive line long term. Evans will need to put on weight and given the depth at defensive tackle, I wouldn’t expect him to see the field too much in 2024.

Overall Grade: A-

I’m expecting this group to be a problem for opposing offensive lines throughout the 2024 season. Even with the loss of two starters, experience and talent at the position is strong. The Aggies have depth at the position as well meaning they should be able to keep fresh legs on the field and make life easier for the linebackers playing behind them.

Check out our other position previews to get you prepped for the 2024 season: