Conner Weigman deserves better than his short starting opportunities at Texas A&M

Texas A&M University quarterback Conner Weigman has decided to enter the transfer portal and leave the Aggies football program. Weigman, who came to the university as a highly-touted five-star recruit in 2022, played under considerable pressure in a program known for its significant expectations. During his time at Texas A&M, which extended over three seasons, he displayed glimpses of exceptional talent that initially earned him recognition as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. However, he faced challenges that hampered his ability to establish himself as a consistent starter. He started at quarterback for the Aggies in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, however, his journey was marred by inconsistent performances and injuries. In the 2022 season, Weigman began to show promise, completing 68.9% of his passes for 979 yards along with eight touchdowns and two interceptions in just five games. Yet, his early success was shadowed by an unfortunate injury that sidelined him for three games. Regular injuries and a lack of stability at the quarterback position limited his ability to secure the starting role for an extended period. During the 2023 season, after initially winning the starting position again, he struggled in critical games, including a disappointing debut against Notre Dame that ended in a 23-13 loss. His performance led to him being benched during an Oct. 26 game against LSU, which indicated that his playing style might have been impacting his decision-making abilities. As the season progressed, comments from head coach Mike Elko suggested that Weigman faced difficulties in maintaining composure in the pocket and executing his progressions effectively, which contributed to a decline in his play. Consistency, a critical element in quarterback performance, was absent for Weigman, resulting in a mixed record throughout his tenure at Texas A&M. Conner Weigman's departure from Texas A&M could signal a new chapter in his football career, where he may find opportunities to showcase his talents in a different program. Many analysts predict that despite his struggles, he will attract significant interest in the transfer portal due to his previous high ranking and potential when performing well. Texas A&M's previous recruiting success contrasts sharply with the challenges that Weigman faced, highlighting an unusual trajectory for a player originally celebrated for his immense potential. Weigman’s move will not only impact his future but also the dynamics within the Aggies football program, which will seek to fill the void left by a player many had high hopes for.