Mike Elko, Aggies Draw Praise From Senior Bowl Director

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SEC Media Days came and went this past week in Tampa, Florida, and with so many elite-level program filling the conference, there was plenty to discuss and breakdown before kickoff in a few short weeks.

But one program made a particular impact on a figure responsible in spotlighting prospects seeking to make the jump to the professional ranks.

Following the event, Executive Director of the Senior Bowl Drew Fabianich wrote a glowing review of Texas A&M under head coach Mike Elko's tutelage, with a few specific Aggies getting his endorsement by name.

"[Daymion Sanford] is a versatile linebacker who's very physical for his size…[Marcus Ratcliffe is big and fast," wrote Fabianich on X.

He did not stop there, focusing in on quarterback Marcel Reed and his impact this upcoming year.

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"I've enjoyed watching [Marcel Reed]'s game grow over the years. It was great talking with him, and I'm sure that growth will continue this season. Could be a huge year."

Fabianich signed off with a message about the Aggies' leader in Elko, saying the coach "has been one of the biggest supporters of the Senior Bowl and isn't shy about letting everyone know it."

Now, praise from the media, scouts or anywhere else is not going to win football games in between the hashes, but the glowing reviews surrounding Texas A&M seem to signal a shift in culture in College Station.

Given his role, Fabianich is going to focus on the older players on each roster, especially if he is eyeing them for a spot in the Senior Bowl at the end of the year. And all of the Aggies he pinpointed are almost assuredly getting a call from him to cap off their careers.

But his assertions point to key factor in continuing the upward trajectory of the team.

These Aggies are only a few of the veterans suiting up for Elko that have been around for the program's ascent back into the national relevancy.

READ MORE: Texas A&M Tight Ends Could Give Marcel Reed a New Weapon

But there are several pieces throughout the lineup that have a few years under their belt and Elko seems keen on using that experience to form a squad that makes up with what it lacks in talent with wisdom that only comes from battling it out on the field.

The toughest lesson of all for the Aggies entering this season is keeping that same hunger and tenacity that brought them to this position, which Elko touched on during his stop at media days.

It will be a case study in how the pains of defeat after a remarkable run can be the either the biggest motivator or main cause of a letdown.

Only a few weekends are left before talk will turn to action for Texas A&M, but in the meantime it is a refreshing sign to have those on the outside singing the praises of the Aggies.

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