4-star EDGE Solomon Williams commits to Texas A&M Aggies, Mike Elko: ‘He specializes in defense'

Tampa (Fla.) Carrollwood Day four-star EDGE Solomon Williams went to Texas A&M for an official visit on the weekend of Oct. 7. Just over a month later, the Aggies parted ways with head coach Jimbo Fisher and eventually hired Mike Elko as his successor. 

Despite the change, Williams gradually developed strong bonds with Elko and members of his staff. As a result, the 6-foot-2, 255-pound pass rusher committed to Texas A&M over Alabama on National Signing Day. 

“When I was talking with coach Elko, I was able to see how he transformed Duke by making them a real contender and beating Clemson,” Williams told On3. “Also, (defensive line) coach (Sean) Spencer, he’s been recruiting me pretty hard ever since his Florida days. I have relationships with a lot of players up there, even from their No. 1 recruiting class in 2022.” 

In the final days of Williams’ recruitment, Elko spoke to him every day. Spencer and other defensive staffers also looked to connect with him daily. 

Elko’s past success was a key reason why Williams chose Texas A&M

With his decision, Williams becomes one of the top defensive prospects in Texas A&M’s 2024 recruiting class. Additionally, his pledge to the Aggies marks one of the largest recruiting wins of the Elko era. 

“He kept telling me to look at his track record and look at what he’s done in the past,” Williams said about Texas A&M’s head man. “He’s been sending players to the league. He specializes in defense. Before he left and took the Duke job, he was at A&M recruiting the guys that he did and talked about how they had a great defense. He was saying that if I had any doubts or any questions about his track record, go look it up for myself. It speaks for itself.” 

Williams is the No. 186 overall prospect and No. 20 EDGE in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 26 player in Florida. 

On3 rates Williams higher than other recruiting services, according to the Industry Comparison. Per the 2024 On300, he is the No. 25 player in Florida. 

“My decision will be about a place I can see myself grow and mature as a young man,” Williams previously told On3. “I want to walk out of this place being able to take care of my family and be successful. I am looking for a school where I will be held accountable, grow on and off the field and be developed.”