As Texas A&M gears up for its College Football Playoff debut, the Aggies are continuing to reshape their coaching staff under new head coach Mike Elko - and the latest reported addition brings both familiarity and defensive pedigree to the table.
According to multiple reports, former Rutgers co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Zach Sparber is set to join Elko’s staff in an unspecified role. While the exact title hasn’t been announced, what stands out is Sparber’s long-standing connection with newly hired defensive coordinator Lyle Hemphill. The two previously worked together at James Madison and Duke, and that history could be key as Texas A&M looks to build a cohesive defensive identity heading into next season.
Sparber’s recent stint at Rutgers may not jump off the page - the Scarlet Knights’ defense struggled this past season, and the staff was ultimately let go - but there’s more to the story. Before arriving in Piscataway, Sparber was part of a James Madison defense that finished 21st nationally in scoring defense, where he coached linebackers. That kind of production, especially at the FCS level, speaks to his ability to develop talent and organize a unit that can get stops.
The hire follows closely on the heels of another defensive addition: former Arkansas defensive coordinator Travis Williams. Like Sparber, Williams comes from a program that didn’t meet expectations defensively this year, but both bring experience and a fresh perspective to a Texas A&M defense that’s looking to turn the page quickly.
Continuity and chemistry will be crucial, especially with the Aggies preparing for a high-stakes CFP first-round clash. No. 7-seeded Texas A&M will host No.
10 Miami (10-2) this Saturday at Kyle Field, with kickoff set for 11 a.m. CT on ABC/ESPN.
The matchup is a major moment for the program, and Elko’s staff moves suggest he’s not just focused on this postseason run - he’s laying the foundation for the seasons to come.
With Sparber’s familiarity with Hemphill and a background rooted in linebacker development and defensive structure, this addition could quietly become one of the more important pieces of Elko’s early tenure.