Texas A&M might be on the verge of something it hasn’t pulled off in over a decade: sending two players into the first round of the NFL Draft. If the latest projections hold, the Aggies could match their 2014 mark and remind the college football world that the talent pipeline in College Station is still very much alive and well.
After a 2024 season that saw just three key defensive linemen-Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner-head to the NFL (all of whom were scooped up in the first or second rounds of last year’s draft), the Aggies are now gearing up for another big draft moment. And this time, the spotlight is on both sides of the ball.
In NFL.com’s latest mock draft, Cashius Howell, KC Concepcion, and Chase Bisontis all hear their names called in the first round. If that plays out, it would mark a significant milestone for Texas A&M’s program, especially considering the diverse positions these players cover-edge rusher, wide receiver, and offensive guard.
Let’s break it down.
Cashius Howell - EDGE - Projected No. 23 to Philadelphia Eagles
Cashius Howell’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of dominant. He didn’t just break out-he exploded onto the national scene.
With 11.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and 41 pressures, Howell earned unanimous All-American honors, becoming just the 11th player in Texas A&M history to do so. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed.
The Eagles, who struggled to generate consistent pressure off the edge last season-Jalyx Hunt led the team with just 6.5 sacks-could use a spark. Howell brings exactly that. He’s a dynamic pass rusher who’s still refining his run defense, but his burst off the line and ability to disrupt the pocket make him a high-upside pick.
Some mocks have him going even higher-NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah recently had him at No. 15 to Tampa Bay-but wherever he lands, Howell looks like a player ready to make an immediate impact.
KC Concepcion - WR - Projected No. 30 to Denver Broncos
KC Concepcion made a bold move transferring from NC State to Texas A&M, and it paid off in a big way. He turned in a stellar season as an all-purpose weapon, racking up 61 receptions for 919 yards and nine touchdowns, adding 75 rushing yards and a rushing score, and making his presence felt on special teams with two punt return touchdowns while averaging 18.2 yards per return.
That kind of versatility earned him the Paul Hornung Award and All-American honors. But it’s his ability to separate against man coverage that has scouts buzzing.
According to the mock draft, “Few receivers cook quite like Concepcion when it comes to separating from man coverage.” That’s the kind of trait that translates quickly to the next level-especially in today’s NFL, where creating space is everything.
For the Broncos, who are still searching for offensive consistency, Concepcion could be a plug-and-play weapon with the ability to stretch defenses and contribute in multiple phases of the game.
Chase Bisontis - OG - Projected No. 32 to Seattle Seahawks
Chase Bisontis might be the most under-the-radar of the trio, but don’t let that fool you-his stock has been steadily rising. After three seasons anchoring the interior of Texas A&M’s offensive line, Bisontis decided to forgo his final year of eligibility. And with good reason.
He’s known for his elite strength and steadily improving pass protection, making him a logical fit for a team like Seattle. The Seahawks are headed to the Super Bowl, but that doesn’t mean they’re without needs. Protecting Sam Darnold remains a priority, and with last year’s first-round pick Grey Zabel locking down one guard spot, Bisontis could slide in and solidify the other.
Seattle’s GM John Schneider has a history of trading out of the first round, but this might be one of those years where he sticks and picks. Bisontis brings toughness, positional flexibility, and the kind of trench presence that playoff teams covet.
The Bigger Picture
Of the three, only Howell had no choice but to declare-his eligibility was up. Concepcion and Bisontis could’ve returned for another run, but both opted to strike while their draft stock is hot. It’s a testament to how well they performed in 2025 and how confident they are in their NFL readiness.
If all three end up going in the first round, it would be a major win for Texas A&M’s program and a clear sign that the Aggies are developing high-end talent across the board. For a team looking to reassert itself in the national conversation, that kind of draft success speaks volumes.
And for Howell, Concepcion, and Bisontis? The next chapter is just beginning.