Skip to main content

Jay Bateman Effect: A&M’s Secret Weapon in Linebacker Recruiting

Screenshotby:Landyn Rosow07/09/25
OIP

Since joining the Texas A&M staff under Mike Elko, co-defensive coordinator Jay Bateman has quickly become one of the most active and effective recruiters on the Aggie staff—especially at the linebacker position. Whether it’s in-state prospects or national targets, Bateman’s presence has been felt, and it’s showing in A&M’s momentum with several top names.

Leading the Charge for Watkins and Witten

Tamarion Watkins, A&M’s top off-ball linebacker target in the 2026 class, has been heavily recruited by Bateman from the start. The Elko-Bateman combo has positioned the Aggies at or near the top throughout the process, and with a decision looming this month, A&M remains in strong shape.

But the impact goes beyond just 2026. In the 2027 cycle, Cooper Witten out of Oklahoma has already named A&M one of the four schools standing out, and Bateman is the driving force.

“Coach Bateman is the guy recruiting me the hardest from A&M,” Witten told AggieYell.

“We’ve built a strong relationship, and I plan to get out there a few times this fall.”

For a program that’s struggled in recent years to consistently land and develop elite linebackers, Bateman is helping shift that narrative.

Relationship Builder and Scheme Teacher

Bateman’s background as a defensive coordinator and positional coach at North Carolina and Army has given him a reputation as both a relationship-builder and a scheme teacher. Recruits frequently mention how detailed and personal his approach is.

“He talks ball, but he also talks life,” one 2025 linebacker target said. “You can tell he knows how to coach and connect.”

Culture Fit and Identity

Under Elko, the identity of A&M’s defense is being rebuilt with a focus on smart, fast, and physical defenders who fit the scheme. Bateman’s recruiting approach mirrors that vision, and he’s zeroing in on guys who not only have athletic upside but also understand the mental side of the game.

With targets like Watkins, Tylan Wilson, and Witten, and commits like Bryce Perry-Wright, A&M’s defensive recruiting is seeing real upward momentum in 2026 and beyond.

And while Elko sets the tone, there’s no doubt: Jay Bateman is the engine behind the linebacker board.

You may also like