Mike Elko outlines the plan for Conner Weigman as a runner

If Texas A&M is going to take a significant step forward in 2024, one thing must happen: Quarterback Conner Weigman must remain healthy.

Weigman has shown he’s an excellent quarterback in limited action over the last two years, but he’s been unable to finish either of the last two seasons due to injury. That has to change this fall. To that end, Texas A&M doesn’t plan to run him a ton.

“I think every quarterback has his own skill set,” head coach Mike Elko said on the SEC Network set at SEC Media Days. “And I think there’s a part of quarterback run that exists now in college offense, but I don’t think that has to be a staple of Collin Klein’s offense.”

The new offensive coordinator will look to build around Conner Weigman’s considerable skills. Those skills include being able to run the ball, but, again, don’t expect Texas A&M to ride that portion of Weigman’s game.

Klein has had those discussions with Elko, and the two are on the same page.

“I think him and I, when we kind of sat down in the offseason and decided to make this move together, I think we knew Conner’s an athlete and Conner has the ability to threaten with his feet and run, but he’s also an elite-level passer,” Elko said. “So I think as a great offensive coordinator does, we’re going to tailor this thing around the group of skill kids that we have.”

In two seasons now, Conner Weigman has thrown for 1,875 yards and 16 touchdowns, against just two interceptions. He’s been very safe and effective with the football.

The Aggies are hoping he can stay healthy, allowing him to lead the team throughout an entire season, instead of just half of it.

In pursuit of that goal a little less running is in the cards for Conner Weigman.

“Not to say Conner won’t run the ball, but I don’t know that you’ll see the Collin Klein two tight ends, quarterback power six times in a row into the end zone,” Elko said with a laugh. “I joked with Collin a little bit, he’ll be a little bit jealous that Conner gets to sit back there in the pocket and sling it around a little bit more.”