Jackie Sherrill’s Enduring Influence: Former Texas A&M Coach Voices Support for Mike Elko and Tradition
As Texas A&M continues to navigate a new era under head coach Mike Elko, one legendary figure from the Aggies’ storied past has quietly expressed his support—former head coach Jackie Sherrill. While there hasn’t been a recent public message from Sherrill to Elko, the hall-of-fame coach has made it clear in past interviews that he believes Elko is the right man for the job.
“He’s earned the right,” Sherrill said in 2023, shortly after Elko was named head coach. That endorsement carries weight, coming from a man who helped build the foundation of Texas A&M football in the 1980s. Sherrill’s legacy includes initiating the iconic “12th Man Kickoff Team,” a tradition that empowered walk-on players and embodied the spirit of the Aggie fanbase.
Now, with proposed NCAA legislation potentially capping roster sizes and limiting walk-on participation, Elko is standing firmly against it—echoing Sherrill’s values. “I think it’s absolutely against college football, what it stands for and what it’s about,” Elko stated when asked about the potential impact on the 12th Man tradition.
The parallels between the two coaches are striking: both value culture over flash, team over individual. While Elko represents the future of Texas A&M, Sherrill’s enduring influence remains a guiding presence.
The Aggie faithful continue to draw inspiration from the past while looking ahead. Sherrill’s legacy reminds everyone that Texas A&M football is built not just on talent, but on heart, resilience, and tradition. As Elko carves his own path, he does so with the silent approval of a legend—and the full backing of a program determined to honor its roots while reaching for greatness.
Aggie Nation, the 12th Man is alive
