Texas A&M has one of the most expensive rosters in college football in 2026, reported at $38.9 million by OutKick, seventh nationally, and The Athletic places the Aggies among about 15 programs spending $40 million or more. Quarterback Marcel Reed is the highest paid Aggie at a $3 million On3 valuation, 13th in the country. The spending followed A&M’s first College Football Playoff appearance, a home loss to Miami at Kyle Field in December 2025.
| Player | Pos | Reported value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcel Reed | QB | $3 million | 13th highest valuation in college football |
| Mario Craver | WR | About $1 million | Extension reported as the richest for a receiver in program history |
| Rueben Owens II | RB | About $1 million | Expected lead back for 2026 |
How A&M Compares in the SEC
| Team | Reported roster cost | National rank |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | $47.9 million | 1 |
| LSU | $42.8 million | 4 |
| Texas A&M | $38.9 million | 7 |
| Alabama | $37.2 million | 8 |
| Georgia | $34.2 million | 12 |
How A&M Spends
A&M has always had deep pockets, and it has used them to build depth rather than one superstar contract: its top player sits 13th nationally, while Texas, LSU and Ole Miss all have players paid more. The other big check in College Station goes to the head coach. Mike Elko signed a six year, $69 million extension in November 2025 that pays him $10.75 million in base salary this year.
Roster figures are from OutKick’s May 2026 valuations and The Athletic’s 2026 budget estimates; player figures are On3 valuations and Sports Illustrated reporting. Schools do not publish football payrolls.
The Bottom Line
Texas A&M spends about $38.9 million on its 2026 roster, seventh nationally, led by Marcel Reed at $3 million. The full lists are on most expensive rosters and highest NIL valuations. Follow the Aggies on the Texas A&M football schedule.