Jay Bateman’s job as Texas A&M defensive coordinator got a lot more exciting during the offseason when it was announced that defensive end Nic Scourton would be transferring to his hometown of College Station after two years at Purdue.

Scourton, a graduate of Bryan High School, is thrilled to be back playing at his old stomping ground after leading the Big Ten in sacks last year.

“It’s a blessing, man. I talked to my dad last night. Just being able to come to practice, having my college experience, it’s all a blessing, and also playing in the SEC,” Scourton said. “The traditions of being an Aggie are just so rich and my adoptive parents are alumni.”

Scourton knew he would be surrounded by plenty of defensive talent like Shemar Turner and Shemar Stewart, and he is confident the Aggie team is capable of greatness.

“I think the sky’s the limit, you know? Those guys are going to make their plays, I’m going to make mine, and I think we’re going to help each other make more plays. There’s a lot of tension between those guys and the guys on the defensive line and on defense, too,” Scourton said.

“If we all work to get better, we will be something very special this year.”

Scourton also had the privilege of training during the offseason at the Dallas Sports Academy with some enthusiastic Aggie alumni, linebacker Von Miller and reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, and received professional support and advice to improve his game at every level he competes.

“It was so surreal. Imagine meeting Superman and he’s 10 times cooler than you thought,” Scourton said. “It was really a blessing to be around those guys and make those connections. I got a lot from them and built a lot of confidence because I saw that I could fit in with those guys.”

Aggies fans will see how much of that star power on defense has faded from Scourton and the rest of the A&M defense in just 23 days when the Aggies start their 2024 season.