Mike Elko’s Texas A&M makes strides in five-star OT Jackson Cantwell’s recruitment with strong visit reception

Texas A&M has firmly positioned itself as a top contender for five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell in the 2026 recruiting cycle. The Nixa High School (Missouri) standout made a return visit to College Station this weekend and came away impressed with Mike Elko's program.

Following the visit, Cantwell shared his excitement on X by posting a photo with Texas A&M offensive analyst Josh Buford and tagging key Aggies staff, including Elko, offensive line coach Adam Cushing, quarterbacks coach Collin Klein, offensive line analyst Deveonte Mackey and offensive line coach Wisly Desire.

"Had a good time at Texas A&M the past few days! #GigEm #NSGB @CoachBufordJ @CoachCushing @CK_KleinCollin @CoachMikeElko @CoachDmackey @CoachWiz77," Cantwell tweeted Sunday.

Cantwell has been open about Texas A&M’s efforts in his recruitment, as he told 247Sports last month that the Aggies have made him feel like a top target.

"They have put a lot of time into recruiting me and really shown I'm a priority there," Cantwell said. "I like their OL coach a lot. He's breaking down film with me and showing me how they're successful. Coach Mike Elko is a good dude."

Jackson Cantwell has received offers from almost all major programs in the nation. Besides Texas A&M, he also took unofficial visits with Georgia, TCU, Alabama, LSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Oregon, Missouri and Tennessee. His Texas A&M visit comes as he prepares to announce his top four schools, with the list expected to drop soon.

Jackson Cantwell opens up about his trip to Texas A&M

Jackson Cantwell is the No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2026 class. Landing an elite prospect like him would be a major recruiting win for Texas A&M, and the Aggies made their pitch this week during his visit to the school.

“The visit was good,” Cantwell told On3. “I enjoyed College Station and getting to see everything I needed to see... They made me feel like a priority this weekend."

Texas A&M has 10 committed players in the 2026 class, ranking No. 6 in the nation. The Aggies weren't initially viewed as a top school in Cantwell's recruitment, and On3 gave the Aggies only a 3% chance of securing his commitment. However, they made a strong late push.

"The development, culture, coaching staff and continued interest make the Aggies a contender," Cantwell told On3. "We will see how the official visits shake out, but I like the Aggies a lot.”

Besides Jackson Cantwell, Texas A&M is also pursuing another five-star prospect, Immanuel Iheanacho, the No. 2 offensive tackle in the 2026 class.