Texas A&M leader Cashius Howell is poised to make an immediate impact

Reliable pass rushers are in high demand at all levels of football.

As college football offenses become increasingly pass-dominated, the ability to deploy athletes on the edge or in corners/stunts provides a huge advantage, especially in the SEC.

As Texas A&M's 2024 season begins next Saturday, the Aggies will host No. 7 Notre Dame in what could be a sold-out Kyle Field, who will also serve as Mike Elko's inaugural head coach after serving in the same role with the Duke Blue Devils the past two seasons.

Inheriting a talented roster, including a loaded defensive line, Elko used the transfer portal this offseason, earning commitments from former Purdue defensive end Nic Scourton, who led the Big Ten in sacks (10) last season, and former Bowling Green defensive lineman Cashius Howell, who has 9.5 sacks in 2023.

While Scourton certainly brings immediate NFL-level strength and production to the line, first-year defensive coordinator Jay Bateman spoke about Howell's potential impact this season due to his versatility in the trenches after an impressive fall camp.

“He’s great. He’s a unique player and he can do a lot of different things… He’s a very important part of the defense and he’s going to play a lot. I’m happy to have him with me.”

After gaining weight this offseason, Howell now stands at 6'4″ and weighs 240 pounds. In his three seasons at Bowling Green, Howell recorded 56 tackles, 27 solo tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks.

Right now, Howell will likely play as a backup defensive end behind Nic Scourton, with the ability to move inside if needed.

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