Texas A&M Aggies have announced the immediate enrollment of Loia Valade, a re‑classified defensive back who will join the program from Boca Raton, Florida, after completing a standout prep career.
During his two seasons at McCallie School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Valade logged 31 tackles, one tackle for loss and two interceptions — one of which he returned for a touchdown — while also catching 43 passes for 664 yards and seven scores, and adding six kickoff returns for 114 yards.
State‑Championship pedigree
Valade helped his high school team finish the 2024 season with a 21‑5 record and a TSSAA Division II‑AAA state championship, a run that placed the program among the top contenders in the nation.
Recruiting services have consistently ranked him as a three‑star prospect, listing him at No. 36, No. 43 and No. 54 among Florida prospects on Rivals, On3.com and ESPN.com, and positioning him between No. 42 and No. 60 among defensive backs nationwide.
Although he was born in Canada, Valade grew up in Florida and is expected to bring a blend of size, speed and playmaking ability that coaches say can bolster both the secondary and the pass rush.
Implications for the Aggies
Texas A&M’s defensive coordinator highlighted Valade’s versatility, noting that his experience on offense and special teams adds depth to a unit that has been seeking additional playmakers ahead of the upcoming season.
The addition of Valade underscores the Aggies’ strategy of targeting high‑character, multi‑sport athletes who can adapt to the rigors of SEC competition, a trend that has yielded several key contributors in recent recruiting cycles.