The incoming seniors for next fall are mostly committing before the season starts. Many want to secure a spot at the next level early so they can focus on enjoying their last season of high school football before transitioning to college. Today, we’ll look at which college programs are winning the recruiting battles with some of Texas high school football’s top-tier talent in the class of 2026 running backs. So, who is winning so far?
photo: head coach Mike Elko, and team, credit: 12thman.com, Photo By Craig Bisacre/Texas A&M Athletics
Texas A&M Aggies
The Aggies have successfully secured some of the top talent in Texas football so far. Their recruiting class for 2026 is exceptional, currently ranked second in the nation by ESPN, featuring 19 blue-chip recruits and a total of 22 commitments. Under the leadership of new Head Coach Mike Elko, the Aggies are assembling one of the best recruiting classes they have seen in quite some time. So, which running backs have they managed to secure verbal commitments from in the Lone Star State?
Carthage running back KJ Edwards is a four-star prospect with a total of 34 Division I offers, making him the fourth-ranked recruit among running backs in Texas. Many had projected Edwards to commit to the Texas Longhorns; however, Texas A&M ultimately won the battle for this elite running back’s talents. KJ is an explosive player who can turn any touch of the football into a significant gain, showcasing breakaway speed and agility that allows him to score from anywhere on the field. The Aggies have secured a real star in the making, and he has the potential to become an early starter and a high draft pick in the future. KJ committed to the Aggies in June of this year and will remain dedicated to them until he signs his letter of intent.
BREAKING: Elite 2026 RB KJ Edwards has Committed to Texas A&M, he tells me for @on3recruits
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 17, 2025
The 5’11 195 RB from Carthage, TX chose the Aggies over Texas, LSU, & Alabama
He’s ranked as the No. 3 RB in ‘26 (On3)
“All glory to God!! AggieLand I’m home.”https://t.co/49ZErrAyXJ pic.twitter.com/4PSU22XrPm
With a second commitment in the class of 2026 for the Aggies in Texas, they have strengthened their backfield by securing another high-profile recruit: Jonathan Hatton Jr. from Steele High School in San Antonio, TX. This four-star prospect boasts 34 total Division I offers and could have chosen to play anywhere in the country, but he has decided that College Station will be his next home for both his athletic and academic career.
#NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/WQtMiFzwvW
— Jonathan Hatton Jr (@JHattonJr28) June 7, 2025
(featured photo credit: Jonathan Hatton Jr, X.com, @JHattonJr28)
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