Texas A&M senior ranked as one of the top returning Edge rushers per Pro Football Focus
After serving as a rotational defensive lineman/edge behind Shemar Stewart, who the Cincinnati Bengals drafted with the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, Howell has become one of the Aggies' most essential players on the roster, as A&M's pass rush dropped off significantly during the program's 1-4 finish to the 2024 campaign.
Standing at 6'4" and over 250 pounds, Howell recorded 26 tackles, four sacks, and seven pass deflections during his first season with the Aggies, while he dominated USC's offensive line during the first half of the Las Vegas Bowl in late December. Possessing the size, speed, and pass rush arsenal to lead the Aggies in sacks and pressures next season, it's important to note that Howell has already proven his worth as a pass rusher.
According to Pro Football Focus, Howell enters the 2025 campaign as the fifth-highest rated edge (82.4), just a spot below Texas edge Collin Simmons, who is considered the best pass rusher in the country by many. With coach Mike Elko now calling defensive plays for the Aggies next season, Howell will line up off the edge, but will be deployed as the primary rusher in different packages, especially in third-down situations.
Texas A&M's defensive line will feature four new edge rushers from the transfer portal. In contrast, freshman edge Marco Jones, who dominated during the Maroon & White spring game, could also make an immediate impact and is slated to see early playing time.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
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