Texas A&M Football Position Analysis: Will Lee III Set to Spearhead the Secondary
As Texas A&M gears up for the 2025 college football season, one of the most pivotal units under the spotlight is the secondary. With roster turnover and rising expectations, the Aggies will be leaning heavily on junior defensive back Will Lee III to anchor and elevate this vital group. A transfer from Kansas State who made an immediate impact in 2024, Lee is poised to become not just a shutdown corner, but the vocal and strategic leader of Texas A&M’s revamped defensive backfield.
Lee, known for his long frame, quick instincts, and physical style of play, enters his second year in Aggieland with the potential to emerge as one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC. Standing at 6-foot-3 with elite coverage skills, he brings a unique combination of size and speed that allows him to match up with both big-bodied receivers and explosive slot threats.
In 2024, Lee’s presence helped stabilize an otherwise inconsistent secondary. He finished the season with multiple pass breakups, a pair of interceptions, and earned praise from the coaching staff for his leadership on and off the field. Now, in 2025, the expectations are even higher—not just for his individual performance, but for his role in mentoring a younger, less experienced defensive back group.
Texas A&M’s secondary faces a critical transition after losing key contributors to graduation and the NFL Draft. With names like Tyreek Chappell and Bryce Anderson moving on, the Aggies are relying on a mix of returning contributors and promising underclassmen. Sophomores Bravion Rogers and Jayvon Thomas have flashed potential in spring camp, but will need guidance and consistency to grow into full-time starting roles.
Lee’s leadership will be especially important in defensive coordinator Jay Bateman’s aggressive scheme, which often puts corners on islands and demands tight man coverage and high football IQ. His ability to communicate, read offensive formations, and adjust coverages in real-time gives the Aggies a much-needed veteran presence in the back end.
Texas A&M also added depth in the transfer portal to support Lee. Look for safety Donovan Saunders, a hard-hitting transfer from the Group of Five level, and freshman standout Marcus Ratliff to compete for key roles in nickel and dime packages. The emphasis this offseason has been building chemistry, improving tackling efficiency, and reducing busted coverages—areas where Lee has already made a visible impact during spring practices.
What makes Lee such a valuable asset isn’t just his athleticism, but his mentality. Coaches often describe him as a “film junkie,” constantly studying opponent tendencies and helping younger players with technique. That level of preparation is infectious and sets a tone across the entire secondary.
As the Aggies enter what promises to be a challenging SEC slate, having a true anchor like Will Lee III in the defensive backfield could be the difference between an average defense and an elite one. If Lee plays up to his potential and the supporting cast around him matures quickly, Texas A&M’s secondary could quietly become one of the team’s most reliable units in 2025.
