Texas A&M’s young DL speaks on growth after spring practice
Marco Jones and Landon Rink spoke with reporters after Texas A&M’s eighth spring practice, sharing early impressions and updates on their development.
Texas A&M is deep into spring practice, and while the systems under Mike Elko and his coordinators are familiar, the personnel stepping into key roles are anything but. The return of Elijah Robinson has energized the defensive front, but the biggest storyline remains the same: who emerges to anchor a unit that sent nearly its entire starting lineup to the NFL. One name already drawing attention is sophomore Marco Jones, the two‑sport standout who is now fully committed to football.
Even in a limited role last season, Jones flashed high‑end upside, finishing with 21 tackles and 2. 5 sacks as a rotational piece. With his focus narrowed and his frame continuing to develop, he’s positioned to push for a starting job at some point during the 2026 campaign.
Another young lineman generating buzz is Landon Rink. His snaps were more limited than Jones’, but the talent was obvious. As a true freshman thrown into the interior of an SEC defensive line, Rink held his own and showed the kind of raw power and motor that typically translates once experience catches up.
Both players will have every opportunity to prove they belong in the rotation. And in classic Mike Elko fashion, the path to playing time is simple. Produce, and you play.