Texas A&M is heading into the 2026 season with some big shoes to fill along the interior of its offensive line. With both starting guards off to the NFL, the Aggies are now looking at a mix of homegrown talent and experienced transfers to step in and stabilize things up front. The situation isn't without its challenges, but there’s also a lot to like about how this group is shaping up.
The anchor in the middle is returning center Mark Nabou, who had a strong 2025 campaign and brings much-needed stability. Nabou’s presence is more than just about holding the line - he’s the guy making protection calls and setting the tone for the rest of the unit. Having him back is a huge plus for a group that’s going to be integrating new pieces on both sides of him.
Enter the transfer portal additions: Coen Echols from LSU and Trovon Baugh from South Carolina. Between them, they’ve logged over 1,200 snaps and appeared in 24 games - that’s valuable experience, especially in the SEC trenches. Both will be upperclassmen this fall, and that maturity could go a long way in helping smooth the transition.
Baugh brings impressive length, particularly in his arms, which gives him an edge in both run blocking and keeping defenders at bay in pass sets. Echols, meanwhile, is a bit of a Swiss Army knife - capable of playing guard or sliding over to center if needed.
While both still have room to grow in pass protection, Echols in particular flashes some real upside as a run blocker. That’s the kind of skill set that can open up lanes and set the tone physically.
There’s also another intriguing name in the mix: Wilkin Formby, a transfer from Alabama who split time between tackle and guard last season. While he’s played both spots, he looked more comfortable on the interior, and that’s likely where he’ll get his shot at A&M. Formby adds another layer of versatility to a group that’s going to need it as they find the right combination.
All told, this is a retooling effort, not a rebuild. With Nabou anchoring the middle and three experienced SEC linemen vying for spots, the Aggies have options - and more importantly, they have upside. There’s still work to be done in refining pass protection, but the foundation is there for a unit that can hold its own in the trenches.