The X Factors: Nickel Tyreek Chappell
In this series, we’re looking at 10 players who could have a major impact on the success or failure of the 2025 Texas A&M football team. Some are starters, some aren’t — but they’re certainly not getting the attention they deserve.
The series continues with nickel Tyreek Chappell, who is entering his fifth season with the Aggies after a torn ACL suffered in week 2 of the 2024 season led to a redshirt.
Class: Redshirt senior
Height/Weight: 5-foot-11, 180 pounds
2024 stats: 3 tackles, 1 tackle for loss
Why he’s so important: To learn Chappell’s value, all you have to do is hear the coaching staff talk about losing him last year. “when we lost him last year, it drastically impacted us playing the way we wanted to play,” coach Mike Elko said. “Losing last him was a blow to us,” defensive coordinator Jay Bateman said.
Chappell was easily the defensive back who was best suited for the nickel role last year, as he can cover slot or outside receivers and brings a Philadelphia toughness against the run. Jaydon Hill couldn’t cover and BJ Mayes struggled to tackle, so the falloff was both clear and painful.
Chappell is the most experienced defensive back on the team and a former Freshman All-American at corner. As a nickel, he won’t have to come off the field unless he’s tired (or, heaven forbid, another injury occurs) because he can both cover and tackle. Not having him for most of last season caused major problems for the defense; hopefully, his return will all Elko’s defense to operate at a much higher level.
