Texas A&M Football: 7 Most important players in 2018

No. 6 Linebacker Otaro Alaka and No. 5 Defensive Tackle Kingsley Keke

These two will be absolutely key in the development of Texas A&M’s defense in 2018. It was quite exciting for Aggie fans to see that both of these guys were returning for their senior season. Let’s break down each player’s importance to the overall defense, starting with linebacker Otaro Alaka.

After a strong campaign in 2014, injury stopped what could have been a breakout season for the young linebacker. After 12 tackles in three games, his season came to an end. Former head coach Kevin Sumlin detailed the extent of his injuries:

"It’s been a tough time for him. He dislocated an elbow in fall camp, had a serious illness in the family, came back and…had a torn labrum, about three-quarters of it. The decision was made to just have him have surgery and he’ll fall under the time frame that we’ll apply for a medical redshirt."

As a result of this medical redshirt, the linebacker will have the opportunity to improve his draft stock in the coming season under new defensive coordinator Mike Elko.

In addition to Alaka, defensive tackle Kingsley Keke has made the decision to return for his senior season. Keke has been listed as one of the top players returning in the Southeastern Conference, both at his position and as an overall player. While he didn’t enter Texas A&M as the most highly touted prospect, last season he showed his importance to the defensive unit. He finished with 54 tackles, including 2.5 for loss, to go with a pair of pass breakups and fumble recoveries.