Carthage star running back KJ Edwards has officially committed to Texas A&M, bringing elite explosiveness and high-octane playmaking ability to the Aggies’ backfield. The announcement reverberated across the college football recruiting landscape, instantly elevating the Aggies’ 2025 class and adding yet another electrifying weapon to an offense looking to make major waves in the SEC. For A&M fans, it’s a moment of triumph and validation—landing a premier Texas talent who had offers from across the country but ultimately chose to stay home and represent the Lone Star State’s flagship program.
Edwards, a 5-foot-11, 195-pound back out of Carthage High School, is widely regarded as one of the most complete running backs in the 2025 cycle. A powerful north-south runner with lightning speed, quick-cut agility, and vision well beyond his years, Edwards possesses all the traits of a future college star—and possibly a future NFL draft pick. His junior season alone was a masterpiece, as he racked up over 2,100 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns while helping lead Carthage deep into the Texas state playoffs. Coaches, analysts, and fans alike have praised his ability to flip the field on any given play and grind out tough yards between the tackles when needed.
Texas A&M’s pursuit of Edwards was relentless. From early evaluations to campus visits and personal relationships built between Edwards and the Aggie coaching staff, A&M made it clear that he was a top priority. Head coach Mike Elko and running backs coach Trooper Taylor spearheaded the recruitment, showing Edwards exactly how he would fit into the offensive system, emphasizing the program’s commitment to developing top-tier running backs. Edwards responded to that attention and energy, gradually narrowing his list of suitors and ultimately committing to the Maroon and White.
This commitment is not just a victory on the recruiting trail—it’s a strategic move that could define Texas A&M’s offense in the years to come. The Aggies are retooling under Elko’s new leadership, and securing playmakers like Edwards is essential to not only competing in the rugged SEC but becoming a perennial contender. In Edwards, they get more than just a back who can take it to the house from 80 yards out—they get a leader, a competitor, and someone who understands the responsibility that comes with being the face of a class.
What separates Edwards from many other backs in this cycle is his versatility. He’s just as comfortable catching the ball out of the backfield as he is pounding the ball inside. Carthage head coach Scott Surratt often lined him up in multiple formations to exploit mismatches, and Edwards routinely delivered. Whether on swing passes, wheel routes, or screens, he’s a threat in space and a nightmare for linebackers trying to cover him one-on-one. His soft hands, route-running ability, and field awareness make him an asset in the passing game, something that should make him even more valuable in A&M’s evolving offense.
Moreover, Edwards is built for the SEC grind. He’s tough. He’s durable. He’s already shown the ability to take on heavy workloads while maintaining a high level of production. He rarely goes down on first contact and routinely bounces off would-be tacklers with balance and leg drive. At the same time, he possesses a second gear that allows him to blow past defenders once he breaks through the second level. He’s not a one-dimensional power back, nor is he a finesse-only runner. He’s the complete package, and that’s what has so many people inside the A&M program buzzing with excitement.
The commitment also has ripple effects beyond just the running back position. Edwards’ presence in the 2025 class could help attract more elite talent across the board, especially on offense. Quarterbacks want to play alongside elite backs. Wide receivers want to be part of an offense that keeps defenses honest with a dangerous ground game. Offensive linemen are drawn to teams that consistently produce 1,000-yard rushers. With Edwards in the fold, the Aggies now have a focal point that other recruits can rally around.
Edwards’ decision is also a win in the ongoing battle for in-state supremacy. Texas A&M beat out several powerhouse programs, including Texas, Oklahoma, LSU, and Alabama—all of which made strong pushes for the Carthage standout. His choice underscores the Aggies’ growing ability to close on top Texas prospects and fend off national competition. It’s an example of the type of recruiting power Texas A&M has been striving to reclaim—and with Elko’s staff now in place, it’s clearly paying dividends.
For Edwards, the decision ultimately came down to fit, family, and future. He spoke glowingly about his visits to College Station, emphasizing the relationships he built with coaches and current players. He felt a sense of belonging on campus, a connection to the culture, and a belief in the direction of the program. While other schools had flash, A&M had the substance he was looking for—a place to grow as both a player and a person.
The Aggies plan to utilize Edwards early and often. With current depth chart changes on the horizon, he’s expected to compete for touches as soon as he steps on campus. And given his talent, few would be surprised to see him earn meaningful reps as a true freshman. His skill set is too dynamic, his playmaking ability too dangerous to keep off the field for long. In an age where young stars are expected to contribute quickly, Edwards fits the mold of an instant-impact player.
Carthage has long been known as a high school football powerhouse in Texas, and Edwards is the latest in a long line of elite players to come out of the program. He’s played in big games, handled high expectations, and thrived under pressure. That pedigree should help him adjust to the demands of SEC football with confidence. He’s used to the spotlight—and now it’s about embracing an even bigger stage in College Station.
Off the field, Edwards has also earned praise for his maturity, work ethic, and team-first mentality. Coaches say he’s a natural leader, the kind of player who inspires others with how he carries himself. He’s active in the community, takes his academics seriously, and understands the responsibility that comes with being a high-profile athlete. That level of character only makes his commitment even more valuable for Texas A&M.
The announcement may have come with little theatrics—just a heartfelt message and a clear declaration—but the impact cannot be overstated. This is a cornerstone commitment for the Aggies. It’s a message to the rest of college football that A&M is serious about building a championship-caliber program, starting with elite in-state talent like KJ Edwards.
Looking ahead, the excitement will only build as Edwards continues his senior year at Carthage. Expectations will be sky-high, and all eyes will be on how he finishes his high school career. For Aggie fans, each game will offer a tantalizing preview of what’s to come. With every touchdown run and broken tackle, the vision becomes clearer: KJ Edwards in the backfield at Kyle Field, wearing Maroon and White, carving up SEC defenses, and leading Texas A&M into a new era.
The Aggies didn’t just land a top-tier recruit—they secured a potential star who could help redefine what the future looks like in College Station. For KJ Edwards and for Texas A&M, the journey is just beginning.
