Texas A&M sent 13 players to the 2026 NFL Combine. Here is a rundown of each player that needs to be replaced as well as the possible replacements for each.
Wideout KC Concepcion came to Aggieland to work at the Z on the outside as opposed to the slot (which he played for two seasons at North Carolina State). He made the most of the opportunity, catching over 50 balls for nearly 1,000 yards. He was productive on screens and crossing routes, and was capable of scoring on any play from any place on the field.
The Aggies should have a replacement for Concepcion in Ashton Bethel-Roman who was at the X in 2025. Bethel-Roman is built like a Z and actually played more like a Z in 2025, averaging over 20 yards per reception. He had issues with drops but he wasn't even the number two option in the passing game behind Concepcion, wasn't targeted that much, and didn't get the same opportunities on easy throws that Concepcion and Mario Craver did. However, he will get more of those playing the Z, especially if he is used to replace the crossing routes and screens that Concepcion made the most of. He also might be a more of a downfield threat than Concepcion and generate big plays but vertically as opposed to horizontally.
However, there is more than just Bethel-Roman waiting in the wings to make a run at that spot. Former five star Terry Bussey came from a small school in East Texas and played almost everywhere but receiver in the prep ranks. He has not only had to deal with the expectations of being a five star but adjusting to significantly better competition (both on and off the roster) as well as a new position he had never played before. In addition, he was rarely used to run downfield routes or screens to make something happen after the catch. Bussey is dedicated to improving as a player and has made tremendous strides but he is still trying to make up ground on people who might be bigger or more experienced pass catchers than him.
The most underrated player that could challenge Bussey and Bethel-Roman is second year man TK Norman. He is a fluid player who has added strength since he has been on campus. As a result, he can change direction both before and after the catch, and can manipulate defenses and defenders with his playing style. He also has reliable hands and can be quarterback's friend.
Unlike a lot of positions, there is definitely a surface-level, on the roster favorite in Bethel-Roman for the Z spot. That doesn't mean that one of the other two players mentioned here won't get a bunch of snaps, or that they any of them won't get them in other roles operating out of the slot or in the return game.
In fact, targets may be more spread out between the Z (no matter who plays there) and X (projected to be Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton) than last season since Horton can be a bigger presence along the boundary, particularly when the Aggies get into the red zone and need someone bigger who can win contested catch situations.
While Bethel-Roman may replace Concepcion at the Z, replacing Concepcion's production may be the responsibility of multiple guys.