Texas A&M Football 2023 Position Preview: Safeties; a deep and talented group
Texas A&M kicks off the 2023 college football season in just 50 short days, and while the offseason is nearing its conclusion sooner than later, it’s time to preview what Jimbo Fisher and his staff will be working with from a roster perspective, starting one Safety; of the deepest and most experienced groups the country,
Returning production: Senior strong safety Demani Richardson will return for his fifth and final season in Aggieland after using his Covid year, coming off of yet another productive 2022 season, recording a career-high 73 tackles and five PBUs; he is not only looking to increase his NFL Draft status for 2024 but do everything in his power to aid the Aggies in rebounding from their disappointing 5-7 2022 campaign.
Junior free safety Jardin Gilbert, who ascended on the scene during his first season as a starter, recorded 61 tackles, two interceptions, and four PBUs in 2022. Expect big things from Gilbert in Year 3.
The Sophomore duo of former 2022 four-star prospects Jacoby Matthews (25 tackles, 15 solo) and Jarred Kerr (22 tackles, 15 solo, one sack) make up most of the safety depth after both produced when their names were called in big moments last season. After a minor offseason hiccup, Matthews is ready to pick up where he left off as a free safety depth piece, while the speedy Kerr will likely be utilized as a third-down blitzing option.
Departures: Former Texas A&M safety/nickel corner Antonio Johnson, who was drafted in the 5th-round of the 2023 NFL Draft to the Jacksonville Jaguars, is truly the only loss the Aggies have incurred at the position this offseason, and even though his notable length and versatility will be missed, the Aggies are in very good hands for 2023.
Final Observation: Texas A&M’s defense ranked first in the country in passing yards allowed at 156.2 yards per game last season, primarily due to Demani Richardson and Jardin Gilbert’s consistent effort combined with a defensive back group that will also experience limited attrition going into next season. For those wondering, sophomore defensive back Bryce Anderson will likely take over the nickel corner spot, replacing Antonio Johnson.
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