Despite some lingering issues from last season, Mike Elko is determined to win a championship this year. His strategy? Depth, and plenty of it. With 25 commitments, the 2025 class is ranked No. 4 nationally; meanwhile, the 2026 class boasts 11 strong pledges and a No. 2 national ranking. But while Texas A&M loads the cannon, other teams like Michigan and Notre Dame have jumped into the mix. The latest move? Trying to snatch Elko’s 6’4, 225 defensive weapon, and if he doesn’t make a move, things might go south real fast for the Aggies.

But who’s this 6’4, 225-pound freak who’s making Michigan and ND go gaga over him? Well, it’s four-star EDGE Samu Moala, out of Leuzinger High School (Calif.), who has been committed to Mike Elko’s program for the last six months. And Samu is pretty much hooked on his commitment to the team. “Texas A&M is where I feel at home, and my feelings are even stronger for them now than they were when I committed, but I am going to get out and take some visits to see other places and make sure of things,” Moala told On3.

But here’s the kicker: multiple programs are trying to poach Samu Moala from Mike Elko’s grips. And despite Samu’s loyalty to the Aggies, other teams’ interest hasn’t slowed a bit. And On3 Recruits’ tweet feels like a straight-up warning to Texas A&M, as it states, “Multiple programs continue to push for Texas A&M 4-star EDGE commit Samu Moala, @ChadSimmons_reports 👀.”  Now, teams like Michigan, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Texas, UCLA, and USC continue to chase Elko, a 2026 key prospect.

And just so you know, Samu, Moala has not scheduled any official visits to any of the teams yet, but he is not backing out completely either. Yes, you read that right. Moala plans on taking official visits soon to see what they have to offer. “Those schools reach out about once a week or so to check on me. I am just keeping the connections with coaches right now. Those schools are showing interest in me, so I will take some visits and see what it is like at those schools.” Said Moala.

Now, all of Michigan sees a prime recruiting opportunity. With only one 2025 EDGE signee, Nate Marshall, and three-star Tariq Boney in 2026, they’re actively seeking more talent. Moala fits their needs, and Michigan’s pursuit is unwavering.

Their usual summer recruiting push is underway, and Moala is a top target. June and July are typically productive months for Michigan, and this year’s recruiting looks the same. They aim to get Moala on campus then, despite his current commitment to Texas A&M. However, Notre Dame remains a strong contender.

Mike Elko’s Texas A&M’s future is at stake

Look, Samu Moala is already a hot commodity, and for good reason. A top-100 prospect in the class of 2026, Moala possesses all the qualities college scouts covet. At Leuzinger High School, he plays inside linebacker, relentlessly pursuing plays from sideline to sideline. Coaches see him transitioning to an edge rusher at the next level, where his size, instincts, and explosive speed will thrive.

That’s not the end of it. Moala even clocked an impressive 19.03 mph using Catapult GPS, showcasing elite speed. His relentless motor and physicality disrupt plays, whether shedding blocks or chasing down ball carriers. Moala makes impactful plays look effortless. With numerous top programs already recruiting him, his potential is among the highest for any California sophomore. It’s no surprise that even Notre Dame is vying for his commitment.

And ignoring a championship runner-up team that’s already ranked 1st nationally with 12 commits isn’t that straight. But the team already has five-star edge rusher Rodney Dunham and Ebenezer Ewetade, who can work both in their favor and against them. As it shows, young players are trusting HC Marcus Freeman and his coaching style, but with so many players, the chances of competition might increase.

However, let’s not forget Mike Elko’s team is still Moala’s top priority. “I committed to A&M for a reason,” Moala said. “I can go there and compete and represent the college. When I was there recently, I watched practice and met with the coaches, and I loved it. Coach Elko, Coach Smith, and Coach Tony (Jerod-Eddie) are what I need. They coach hard, and I really saw how I would fit in there. The coaches are genuine, and they are recruiting me just as hard now as they were in the beginning. They always show love, and we have a strong relationship.”

So, it won’t be that straightforward to get Samu Moala’s commitment. But let’s wait and see if things change after his official visit.