Compared to Wednesday’s first preseason practice, Texas A&M’s second practice on Thursday was focused on the Aggies’ defense, especially the newly formed defensive line, now featuring Northwestern transfer Edge Anto Saka, who brings plenty of experience and is already a favorite among NFL scouting circles after recording 30 pressures last season.
However, sophomore Edge Marco Jones, who is expected to start at the Jack position this season, continues to look like a force to be reckoned with after adding more muscle this offseason and will be counted on to pick up the slack as a reliable pass rusher after unanimous All-American Edge Cashius Howell was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Overall, Texas A&M’s defense, notably the Aggies’ loaded secondary, features several key transfer portal additions, while cornerback Dezz Ricks and safeties Dalton Brooks and Marcus Ratcliffe return for what will likely be their final seasons before heading to the NFL.
At linebacker, senior Daymion Sanford, despite his brutal fibula injury that required surgery this offseason, is back on the field and, according to coach Mike Elko, is still expected not to miss any time and be ready for the season-opener vs. Missouri State on Saturday, Sept. 5.
Thanks to a collection of clips from various Aggie beat writers, here are the top highlights from Texas A&M’s second preseason practice on Thursday.
Marco Jones continues to look the part
A big season ahead for senior safety Dalton Brooks
Daymion Sanford looks healthy
Transfer CB Rickey Gibson after his interception on Wednesday
Safety Marcus Ratcliffe is doing his thing
Freshman CB Brandon Arrington on track to receive playing time
A long list of key pieces in the Aggie secondary
More on Daymion Sanford
Now that’s a talented D-line trio
Transfer safety Tawfiq Byard
Texas A&M’s starting nickel?
Senior CB Julio Humphrey is competing for a starting job
Former 5-star WR Jerome Myles is wearing a brace
Transfer LB Ray Coney
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Highlights from Texas A&M’s second preseason practice
Reporting by Cameron Ohnysty, Aggies Wire / Aggies Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cameron Ohnysty, Aggies Wire | USA TODAY Network
