Jonaz Walton, Nation’s Top RB, Surprises with Commitment to Texas A&M Over SEC Rivals
In a major shakeup to the college football recruiting landscape, Jonaz Walton—the No. 1 ranked running back in the 2025 class—has committed to Texas A&M, spurning powerhouse programs like LSU, Florida, and Nebraska. The announcement, made via a live-streamed press conference on Saturday afternoon, sent shockwaves through the SEC and solidified the Aggies as a serious contender in the upcoming recruiting cycle.
Walton, a 5-star talent out of Buford High School in Georgia, had long been linked with SEC heavyweights. LSU and Florida were widely considered frontrunners throughout most of the recruitment process, and Nebraska made a late push with an official visit in early May. However, in a twist few saw coming, Walton chose to don the maroon and white, citing a strong relationship with the coaching staff and a vision that matched his long-term goals.
“From the moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home,” Walton said. “Coach [Mike] Elko and the entire staff made it clear they have a plan for me—not just to succeed on the field, but off it too. I believe in what they’re building at Texas A&M, and I want to be a part of that.”
Walton rushed for over 2,100 yards and 28 touchdowns during his junior season, earning All-American honors and gaining attention from nearly every major program in the country. His blend of speed, vision, and physicality make him a game-changer, and many scouts project him as a future NFL talent.
Texas A&M’s recruiting class now vaults into the national spotlight with Walton’s commitment. He becomes the highest-rated offensive player to commit to the Aggies since the 2022 class and is expected to be a cornerstone of a revamped offense under Elko, who took over head coaching duties last season.
“This is a statement win for Texas A&M,” said recruiting analyst Brandon Huffman. “Landing a player like Jonaz Walton not only boosts your roster but sends a message to the rest of the country that the Aggies are back in the national conversation.”
For LSU and Florida, Walton’s decision is a bitter pill to swallow. Both programs had prioritized him early, with LSU’s Brian Kelly making multiple visits and Florida offering a strong NIL package. Still, Walton insisted that his choice came down to more than facilities or endorsements.
“At the end of the day, I had to follow my heart,” he said. “Texas A&M just felt right.”
The Aggies are not done yet, as they continue to pursue several other top-tier recruits. But landing the No. 1 running back in the nation is already a huge win—and perhaps a sign that College Station is becoming a new destination for elite talent once again.
Jonaz Walton will officially sign during the early signing period in December, but for now, Texas A&M fans have every reason to celebrate.
