Football

Texas A&M revamps special teams for 2026 season

New kickers and punter bring experience and stability to the Aggies' struggling unit

A fresh look for Aggie special teams

The Aggies' special teams unit endured a turbulent 2025 campaign, ranking near the bottom of the SEC and drawing criticism for missed field goals and inconsistent punting.

Enter a comprehensive overhaul for the 2026 season, as head coach Mike Elko and his staff have assembled a new cohort of specialists aimed at restoring reliability and confidence on the field.

Among the newcomers, veteran kicker David Olano brings a track record of clutch performances in high‑stakes games, offering a steady leg that the team sorely missed last year.

Shea Freibaum, who previously navigated the Big 12 scene, adds experience in snap precision and coverage, qualities that coaches say will tighten the unit's overall execution.

Tyler White, now in his third year as the program's punter, combines leg strength with consistency, giving the Aggies a reliable option to flip field position.

A measured approach to improvement

Rather than chasing headlines, the focus is on fundamentals — clean snaps, accurate kicks, and disciplined coverage. If the unit can execute its assignments without fanfare, the Aggies hope to translate that stability into broader success on offense and defense.

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