"They're building something special": Four-star DL Trashawn Ruffin opens up about his commitment to Mike Elko's Texas A&M

By Maliha

Modified Oct 19, 2024 14:56 GMT

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Four-star defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin committed to Texas A&M on Thursday night before going public with his decision on Friday. The 6-foot-3, 303-pound prospect from North Duplin High School in Mount Olive, North Carolina, has a great frame, and his commitment in the 2026 class is a major success for Mike Elko's program.

Elko has developed a formidable defensive front, with current players like Nic Scourton, Shemar Turner and Shemar Stewart making a strong impact. Ruffin could sense his potential in the program.

"They're building something special," Ruffin told 247 Sports. "[I] can't wait to be part of it!!"

Ruffin has seen his stock rise quickly in the last few months, starting with an offer from Florida State in May, followed by a surge of interest from programs like Georgia, Florida and Texas A&M in August.

Last month brought offers from Texas, Ohio State, Vanderbilt and LSU. Despite the attention from powerhouse programs, it was Texas A&M’s coaching staff, including Elko, defensive line coach Sean Spencer and recruiting general manager Derek Miller, that ultimately won Ruffin over.

“I love how they talk to me,” Ruffin told On3. “They make you feel at home. Coach Miller is the main one I talk to. Me and him talk about every day. Good conversations. They just make you feel welcome.”

Trashawn Ruffin has helped lead North Duplin High School to an undefeated 6-0 record so far this season. He is ranked as the No. 259 player in the country, the No. 27 defensive lineman in the 2026 class and the No. 14 overall prospect in North Carolina, per On3 Industry Rankings.

Texas A&M recruiting class update following Trashawn Ruffin's commitment

Texas A&M has secured its fourth commitment for the 2026 recruiting class by adding defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin to its roster. This commitment follows closely on the heels of a pledge from four-star quarterback Helaman Casuga, who joined the Aggies just a day earlier.

Ruffin’s commitment proves Texas A&M's strategic focus on boosting its defense in the upcoming class, as three of its first four recruits are defensive players. The Aggies' defensive efforts have been proven by the previous commitment of four-star safety Rashad Johnson, who is part of the 2025 class.

The other two early commitments for 2026, aside from Ruffin and Casuga, include three-star cornerback Ryan Gilbert and three-star safety Markel Ford.

Texas A&M's 2026 class ranks No. 11 in the nation and No. 7 in the Southeastern Conference.