ESPN projects how two 2027 5-star defenders will 'fit' with Texas A&M

Texas A&M's 2027 recruiting class is far from finished, but it is already ranked No. 1 nationally in On3's updated class rankings, with 12 commitments, all considered blue-chip prospects. In every recruiting class, some prospects stick out more than others, and among the 12 Aggie commits, five-star edge Zyron Forstall and five-star safety Kamarui Dorsey look like immediate impact players.

Third-year head coach Mike Elko's background as one of the top defensive minds has led to the landing and development of future NFL draft selections, including unanimous All-American edge Cashius Howell, who is expected to be drafted in the first or second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

During the recruiting process, Elko stated that Zyron Forstall's aggressive and relentless play mirrors Cashius Howell's 2025 performance, which led to leading the SEC in sacks and tackles for loss, while Forstall's 6'4", 235-pound frame is highly similar to Howell's build.

Forstall's game is built on speed and versatility and comes off an impressive junior season at the prestigious IMG Academy, finishing the year with 28 tackles, five sacks, and four hurries. This week, a group of ESPN writers, including Craig Haubert, provided their scouting takes for every 2027 prospect deemed a potential instant impact player heading into the 2027 season.

"In a crowd of top defenders, Forstall is not going to stand out physically, but when the ball is snapped he will grab your attention. He has a good frame and length with room to add more mass and muscle. In action, he has an explosive first step, keeps excellent pad level and is strong at the point of attack. He's functionally strong and his leaner build allows him to both set the edge and win as a pass-rusher. He has also demonstrated a businesslike approach to his craft and coachability that has drawn strong camp reviews. His initial impact could be more in a pass-rushing role in which he can get off the ball and upfield. Forstall has the tools to become a versatile centerpiece of Texas A&M's front seven as he continues to develop his frame."