Following a successful year terrorizing quarterbacks for Texas A&M, redshirt senior defensive end Cashius Howell became the first Aggie defender drafted after being selected 41st overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The reigning Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year, possesses the tenacity and drive to make an instant impact at the next level after tallying 11.5 sacks in his last season in College Station. A trio of those quarterback wrap-ups happened on three consecutive plays against Utah State to the delight of the 12th Man in attendance.
The Kansas City, Missouri native achieved everything one could write home about, combining his SEC DPOY with a Unanimous All-American selection plus First Team All-SEC honors.
After entrusting head coach Mike Elko with his last two years of eligibility, Howell went from under-the-radar transfer from Bowling Green to skyrocketing up draft boards. Now with the Bengals, Howell joins former A&M teammate Shemar Stewart on a defensive line that came 23rd in sacks a year ago.
A player of Howell’s pass rushing ability has the potential to become one of Aggieland’s greatest edge rushing alums, joining the likes of Von Miller and Myles Garrett in the tales of legend.
