It’s THursday night, so that means it’s time for mail call!

Q: What’s the latest word on Nico’s injury and a possible timeline for his return? (TioHeadley)

A: He has a hamstring injury. Don’t have a timeframe, but he did hit during batting practice Tuesday.

Q: Question about Kiotti Armstrong. You mentioned during spring practice that he looks like an offensive tackle. Historically, many tight ends have become successful OTs, such as Rayfield Wright, Larry Brown and Demetrius Crownover. Could we have another candidate in Armstrong? (Nemojones)

A: I hope not. They have a lot of offensive tackles, but he could still be a difference maker at tight end.

Q: To add to nemojones question, you’ve raved about Armstrong before and yet he appears to be relegated to the bench. Whats his problem? (H273)

A: Honestly, I think he’s carrying too much weight and it’s slowing him down. I do expect he’ll play this year, but, at least in my opinion, getting down to about 260 would be good for him.

Q: Forgive me for losing track, but is the basketball team at full strength, 15 players I believe is the maximum, or are we still trying to get another big man? (Sy81)

A: If my math is right, they’re at 14, so they have a spot left.

Q: What do you think about the new transfer RB joining the room?

A: DD Murray is 5-foot-10, 210 pounds and was very productive at Bellville, rushing for nearly 4,000 yards. In terms of total yards, he churned out more than 4,800. More than half of that came in his junior season, when he ran for more than 2,000 yards. I think, with his size, they may be looking for a short yardage back. He’s got four years of eligibility left, so he may be an insurance policy in case they don’t add any recruits for 2027 (I think they will add at least one very good back, by the way). But I will admit to being surprised by the addition.

Have you heard anything about the coaches teaching our DB’s to play the ball to get more interceptions? (LufkinAg)

A: It’s pretty simple: learn to turn around. They have to anticipate better. It’s not the easiest thing in the world, but they need to learn it.

Q: What was our most effective formation / play last year (in general)?

A: The middle to deep crossing routes. With Mario Craver and KC Concepcion, the Aggies ate opponents alive with that play.

How could that change in 2026 with new personnel and an improved Marcel Reed? (R23)

You get Craver back, and a more physical receiver in Isaiah Horton. They’ve also got a lot of other options, including Ashton Bethel-Roman and Terry Bussey. I don’t know if you replace a Concepcion, but they’ve got some guys who be playmakers.