Updated Jan. 12, 2026, 6:46 p.m. CT<\/p>\n
Texas A&M’s<\/a> 2026 defensive line received a significant boost over the last two days, starting with the landing of Illinois transfer DL Angelo McCullom<\/a>, followed by North Carolina transfer defensive lineman CJ Mims<\/a>, who announced his commitment on Monday morning. Both transfers will immediately contend for starting spots, while one of the program’s most important veteran defenders announced his return mere hours after Mims’ commitment.<\/p>\n Coming off a career year, incoming senior defensive tackle DJ Hicks<\/a> has reportedly re-signed with Texas A&M, as Aggie Yell insider Jaxson Callaway, also known as AggiesToday, shared the news on social media, as head coach Mike Elko and new defensive line coach Elijah Robinson deserve all the credit for getting this deal done early after adding more depth\/talent in the trenches.<\/p>\n Hicks, a former five-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting class, chose the Aggies over Oklahoma in the final stretch of his recruitment, but due to the veteran players in front of him during his first two seasons, it was a slow role for the Katy, Texas native. However, things changed under Elko’s defensive play-calling, leading Hicks to finish the year with a career-high 26 tackles, 3 sacks, 15 pressures, and 14 defensive stops.<\/p>\n Per Pro Football Focus<\/a>, Hicks earned above-average run defense (63.5) and pass rush (66.0) grades, and has another full offseason to add more muscle to his frame, and continue causing havoc in the backfield, while hopefully becoming a more disciplined run defender.<\/p>\n Contact\/Follow us\u00a0@AggiesWire<\/a>\u00a0on X\u00a0(formerly Twitter) and like our page on\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions.\u00a0Follow Cameron on X:\u00a0@CameronOhnysty<\/a>.<\/p>\n Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!<\/a>