5 days ago
2
We're only two days into the new year, and the opening of the transfer portal has brought a flood of news about Texas A&M's future visitors, including two standout defensive veterans who, if they choose to transfer to College Station, would immediately help the Aggies in 2026.
First, Penn State freshman defensive tackle Xavier Gilliam, who was credited with 16 tackles, half a sack, and a forced fumble, finished his first season with a 61.3 defensive grade and a prolific 85.1 coverage grade, per Pro Football Focus. Standing at 6'2" and over 300 pounds, Gilliam is the 31st-ranked player in the transfer portal rankings and would likely replace Texas A&M DL Tyler Odyedim, who is headed to the NFL Draft.
Advertisement
Gilliam's visit day is unknown, as he will also visit Indiana and Notre Dame, likely over the next two weeks. Next week, former Nevada Edge Jonathan Maldonado will visit the Aggies next Monday and Tuesday, and if head coach Mike Elko and his staff are smart, signing Maldonado needs to be next week's main priority. Entering his senior season, Maldonado recorded 38 tackles, five sacks, and four pass deflections, and finished with an elite 85.8 pass rush grade (PFF).
Needing to add three to four defensive linemen from the portal, Maldonado would become an immediate replacement for Cashius Howell, providing even more length and bend off the edge. At the same time, Atkins, who is just scratching the surface of his potential, possesses all the attributes to make an impact in the 2026 rotation.
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.
Advertisement
This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M will host transfer Edge Jonathan Maldonado, Xavier Gilliam
English (US) ·