COLLEGE STATION — Like this Texas A&M football program enters the second half of spring ball, many players are still adjusting to new roles and opportunities.
The most significant shift on the Aggies' roster might be happening on the defensive line, as three key players—Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner—are now focusing on their aspirations for an NFL career.
The three's absence has created several holes along the defense, which the Aggies have addressed aggressively since the 2024 season concluded.
A&M included four additions through the portal and an additional four from the high school level. They also retain players like DJ Hicks, Albert Regis, and Rylan Kennedy, expected to take on bigger responsibilities.
This is what Hicks and head coach Mike Elka shared following the Aggies' practice on Wednesday:
Why DJ Hicks might have an impressive season coming up.
When Hicks joined A&M in the 2023 recruitment cycle, he arrived as an exceptionally promising athlete. According to three prominent scouting organizations—247Sports, ESPN, and Rivals—he earned a five-star rating and secured positions within the top 15 nationally. Additionally, 247Sports designated him as the premier talent in the state of Texas.
Many spots might have allowed Hicks to step in immediately and play, considering he only had 325 defensive snaps in 2024, ranking as the 17th highest total on the team. However, remaining with the Aggies proved to be advantageous for Hicks.
"To be 100% percent honest, it's difficult," Hicks told reporters about not playing much early. "It's hard coming in as a highly-regarded recruit, thinking you're going to play a lot, and then having to wait your turn. It taught me a lot."
Over the past two seasons, Hicks has played in 24 games, starting in both bowl games during this period. He recorded a total of 30 tackles, including five tackles for loss and 2½ sacks.
The days of him feeling around are over," Head Coach Mike Elka stated to journalists about Hicks. "He understands what it takes to be a college football player. Last year definitely gave him a good sense of that experience.
Elko tackles an alarming slogan.
During Wednesday's session with the media, Hicks garnered notice due to an unsettling remark he made regarding a slogan his fellow team members use.
Hicks referred to "C.B.O." as the benchmark of performance he and his fellow players aim to maintain.
Last season’s defensive line demonstrated to us the standard of excellence we should strive for through their dedication and approach to each day,” Hicks stated. “We’re continuing to adhere to our slogan, which remains ‘C.B.O.,’ embodying everything we believe in.
When questioned regarding the abbreviation Hicks, 20, provided an unsettling answer. He stated, "In simple terms: Strangle a woman. Let’s put it that way," according to Hicks.
When confronted directly with Hicks' remark, Elko firmly opposed it and said it would be "dealt with."
It’s sharing information that should not have been shared, so we will address and resolve this issue," Elko stated. "It’s completely absurd that such a statement was made.
It's uncertain how Elko will respond to the remark.
'Moving in the right direction'
Spring practices hold significant importance and have been highlighted by Elko as crucial periods for the Aggies' growth.
Nevertheless, the Aggies' head coach chose not to make big statements regarding what they had gleaned from the initial nine practice sessions.
"I'm confident, but it's the middle of spring. I'm confident that we're making the next step. I'm confident that we'll get there," Elko said.
"There's progress. There's always progress. We're moving in the right direction ... I'm happy with how we're working. I'm happy with where we're going. I'm happy with the development and improvement."
The Aggies are allotted 15 total spring practices and have six more scheduled before their spring game on April 19.
A&M's 10th spring practice is Thursday morning. The media will be allowed to view the first 30 minutes of practice.
Reach Texas A&M Beat Reporter Tony Catalina via email at ACatalina@gannett.com. Follow the American-Statesman on Facebook and X for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Access all of our finest material with this tremendous offer .
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas A&M Football: Mike Elko Notes Spring Advancement, Responds to DJ Hicks' Remark
