How SEC played a role in Texas A&M landing four-star safety recruit

There's something about playing SEC football. "It just means more," as the conference is fond of saying, but that's more than just a catchphrase. That's a reality on the recruiting trail as well.

For instance, four-star safety Chance Collins found himself with a decision to make on Wednesday, and a final four of Texas A&M, West Virginia, Utah and Texas Tech.

Texas A&M's coaching staff — including head coach Mike Elko and lead recruiter, defensive backs coach Ishmael Aristide — made a strong pitch for Collins. They deserve credit for going hard after him on the recruiting trail, but the chance to play in the SEC also spoke volumes to the four-star from Arlington, Texas.

"When I went to the spring practice, I saw how they roll," Collins said of Texas A&M, according to Andrew Hattersley of 247Sports. "I could see myself playing on the field in the SEC. I do want to play at the highest level. So that was a big thing and coach Ish just consistently calling them my parents and me every day."

Coach Aristide deserves the credit for the recruiting win, but hat tip to the reputation of elite football in the SEC as well.

As far as Collins is concerned, he has a chance to be a big-time recruit for Elko and the Aggies. According to the 247Sports Composite, he's the No. 33 safety in the 2026 class.

As a cornerback in 2024 for Mansfield Timberview High School, he notched 20 tackles, two tackles for loss, six interceptions and eight pass breakups.