College Station, Texas, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko has quashed rumors linking him to the vacant Penn State coaching position, calling the speculation a ‘waste of brain space.’ His comments come as Texas A&M holds a perfect 7-0 record and a No. 3 ranking in the AP Top 25. Elko emphasized the instability of coaching positions and maintained his focus on the team, preparing for their upcoming match against LSU this Saturday. Despite the speculation, he remains committed to Texas A&M, under contract until 2030.
College Station, Texas – Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko has dismissed rumors linking him to the head coaching vacancy at Penn State, labeling the speculations as “a waste of brain space” during his weekly press conference on Monday. Elko’s comments come amid heightened speculation following the firing of former Penn State coach James Franklin, who was let go after three consecutive losses on October 12.
Reports surfaced that Elko was considered a prime candidate for the Nittany Lions, particularly alongside Nebraska coach Matt Rhule, as detailed in a recent article. However, Elko emphasized that such discussions are not something he shares with his players, underlining the rapidly changing landscape of college football coaching. He pointed out the inherent instability by noting that just weeks prior he was discussed as being on the verge of losing his job.
As it stands, Texas A&M is flying high with a perfect 7-0 record, the team’s best start since 1994, and they have attained a No. 3 ranking in the AP Top 25 for the first time in nearly three decades. The Aggies remain the only undefeated team in the Southeastern Conference and among just six unbeaten teams nationally. Elko’s leadership has thus far proven effective, as he took the reins of the program last year and managed to secure an 8-5 record following a disappointing loss to LSU.
Elko is currently under contract with Texas A&M until January 2030, with a buyout clause set at $5.5 million if he were to leave before the end of 2025, which subsequently decreases to $4 million after that date. His compensation places him as the No. 32 highest-paid coach in the country, with a total buyout amount of nearly $22 million should he pursue other job opportunities. Elko’s current standing and the Aggies’ success have given him a measure of job security, which would likely differ significantly if the team’s performance were not as strong.
This season has seen significant turnover in the coaching ranks, with 11 Football Bowl Subdivision coaches already dismissed. Amid this volatility, Elko has noted how crucial it is for coaches to maintain focus, especially in light of ongoing rumors and pressures precipitated by the coaching carousel. He prepares his team for their upcoming matchup against LSU on Saturday at Tiger Stadium, as they strive to maintain their undefeated streak.
Background Context
Mike Elko, a native of New Jersey and former college football player at Penn, was hired by Texas A&M following a disheartening season where the team underperformed against expectations. His ability to guide Texas A&M to its current record reflects a significant turnaround and demonstrates his potential as a sought-after candidate for other major programs, despite his current focus remaining firmly on the Aggies and their upcoming challenges.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Texas A&M Record | 7-0 |
| AP Top 25 Ranking | No. 3 |
| Buyout Clause (before Dec 2025) | $5.5 million |
| Buyout Clause (after Dec 2025) | $4 million |
| Total Buyout Amount | Shy of $22 million |
| Highest-paid Coach Ranking | No. 32 |
| Coaches Fired This Season | 11 |
FAQ
What are the current rumors surrounding Mike Elko?
Mike Elko has been mentioned as a candidate for the vacant head coaching position at Penn State, which he has denied.
What has been Elko’s coaching record at Texas A&M?
Elko has led Texas A&M to a 7-0 record this season, marking their best start since 1994.
What is Elko’s contract status?
Mike Elko is under contract until January 2030, with a buyout clause of $5.5 million if he leaves before December 2025.
What is the significance of the Aggies’ performance this season?
The Aggies are the only undefeated team in the SEC and ranked No. 3 in the AP Top 25, enhancing Elko’s job security amidst coaching rumors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mike Elko Addresses Coaching Rumors Amid Strong Season
Texas A&M Football Climbs to No. 3 in National Rankings
Coach Mike Elko Addresses Coaching Rumors Amid Success
Brandon Arrington Commits to Texas A&M University
Madden Williams Commits to Texas A&M University
Texas A&M Aggies Strengthen 2026 Recruiting Class
Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle
- Wikipedia: Mike Elko
- Newsweek
- Google Search: Mike Elko
- Sports Illustrated
- Google Scholar: Mike Elko
- Awful Announcing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mike Elko
- Dallas News
- Google News: Mike Elko
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