As speculation grows around Coach Mike Elko’s potential departure from Texas A&M to take over as head coach of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Aggies’ search for a new leader is expected to be one of the most highly anticipated coaching searches in recent college football history. Elko, who has proven to be a skilled tactician with a keen ability to recruit top-tier talent, may soon be leaving a legacy of growth behind in College Station as he heads to the professional ranks. The move would be a monumental step in Elko’s career, and while it remains uncertain, the Aggies must quickly pivot and find a new head coach who can not only maintain the program’s momentum but elevate it to new heights.
Here are five coaches who could replace Mike Elko, each bringing their own strengths, challenges, and controversies to the table.
1. Dan Lanning (Oregon Ducks Head Coach)
Lanning, the current head coach of Oregon, has been steadily building one of the most formidable programs in the Pac-12. His aggressive defensive schemes and high-powered offense make him a perfect fit for the SEC. Lanning’s history of developing NFL-ready talent and turning around the Oregon program would certainly attract the Aggies. However, his rapid success has already made him a hot commodity in coaching circles, and many believe he could eventually make the leap to an SEC powerhouse. His departure from Oregon would likely cause a stir, with some questioning his loyalty to the Pac-12 and his decision to jump to a high-profile SEC team. Still, his track record speaks for itself, making him a candidate with both a high ceiling and potential controversy due to the quick change in allegiances.
2. James Franklin (Penn State Nittany Lions Head Coach)
Franklin has a long history of success at Penn State and has made the Nittany Lions a perennial contender in the Big Ten. His ability to recruit and develop elite talent in a highly competitive conference would serve him well in the SEC. However, Franklin has been criticized in the past for his perceived inability to win the big games when it counts. Despite this, he has kept Penn State competitive at the highest levels and could be an ideal choice for Texas A&M. The potential controversy here would be his fit in the SEC—many believe his style might not mesh well with the physicality and speed of the SEC compared to other conferences.
3. Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss Rebels Head Coach)
Lane Kiffin, the mastermind behind the high-flying offense at Ole Miss, is no stranger to controversy. Known for his brash style, quick wit, and strong social media presence, Kiffin would certainly bring a different energy to Texas A&M. His ability to build an explosive offense and his keen eye for quarterback talent could immediately transform the Aggies. However, Kiffin’s track record includes several high-profile departures, including his ill-fated stint at USC and his questionable decision-making at times. Texas A&M fans would either embrace his bold personality or be deeply concerned about his history of leaving jobs under difficult circumstances. His hiring would be an intriguing move, but it would bring both excitement and significant risk.
4. Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State Cowboys Head Coach)
Mike Gundy has consistently kept Oklahoma State competitive in the Big 12 despite facing budgetary and recruiting challenges. His ability to build a program that overachieves is something that Texas A&M could desperately use. Gundy’s no-nonsense approach and defensive focus could help balance out Texas A&M’s roster, which has often leaned toward offensive firepower. However, Gundy’s controversial “I’m a man! I’m 40!” rant from years ago would certainly follow him to Texas A&M, and some might question his fit in a program with higher expectations and resources. Still, Gundy’s proven success as a head coach makes him a viable candidate.
5. Deion Sanders (Colorado Buffaloes Head Coach)
Deion Sanders, the electrifying personality who has revitalized the Colorado Buffaloes, would be a shocking, yet potentially transformative, choice for Texas A&M. His magnetic personality, exceptional recruiting skills, and ability to attract media attention could instantly raise the profile of the Aggies program. Deion’s unorthodox approach has already drawn both admiration and criticism, especially given his rapid rise in college coaching. His controversial take-no-prisoners style might clash with some in Texas A&M’s traditionally more buttoned-up football culture. But if he can win, his coaching prowess would silence doubters. His arrival would mark a seismic shift in Aggies football, for better or worse.
As the Texas A&M Aggies prepare for the potential loss of Mike Elko, the next head coach will have large shoes to fill, but these candidates represent a mix of experience, talent, and controversy that could either propel the program to greatness or result in a bitter setback. Whoever ultimately takes the reins, they will face immediate pressure to not only continue Elko’s success but also to elevate Texas A&M to its rightful place among college football’s elite. The stakes are high, and the decision will resonate far beyond the football field.
