Texas A&M OL Layden Robinson To Return For Senior Season

Layden Robinson told reporters following a 38-23 win over No. 5 LSU that he would weigh all of his options when it came to declaring for the impending NFL Draft. 

Those options have been weighed, and it's leaning towards a return to College Station. 

Robinson announced Thursday that he would be returning for his senior season with Texas A&M. Robinson technically still could have two years of eligibility remaining thanks to the COVID-19 waiver given out to all players during the 2020 season. 

A two-year starter, Robinson has been a stalwart at right guard since taking over for Jared Hocker in 2021. Known for his run-blocking skills, Robinson has been one of the key factors for Texas A&M's potent rushing attack in back-to-back seasons. 

In 2021, Robinson was the key blocker in helping Isaiah Spiller finish with over 1,000 yards rushing. This past fall, he did again, this time with junior speedster Devon Achane. 

Robinson has played in 31 games over the previous three years and has started in 19 since 2021. Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher has praised Robinson's leadership and drive in both the huddle and the locker room. 

The Aggies could be returning all five offensive linemen from last season with Robinson's return. Freshman Kam Dewberry is expected to be the starting left guard after seeing extensive reps at the position in November. Bryce Foster should return as the starting center after missing most of last season due to injuries. Both Reuben Fatheree and Trey Zuhn are slated to start at right and left tackle, respectively. 

Texas A&M ranked 82nd in passing offense (219.4 yards per game), 83rd in rushing offense (141.8 yards per game), 95th in total offense (361.2 yards per game), and 101st in scoring offense (22.6 points per game). Three quarterbacks took starting reps during the season, with freshman Conner Weigman finding the most success.

The Aggies will be turning over a new leaf following the hiring of former FCS Missouri State head coach Bobby Petrino as offensive coordinator. Petrino, 61, has over 40 years of experience at the college level and has had successful head coaching tenures at Louisville (2003-06, 2014-18), Arkansas (2008-11), Western Kentucky (2018), and Missouri State (2020-22). 

The Aggies will open the season at home against New Mexico on Sept. 2.