Quarterback Zach Calzada has entered the transfer portal after starting for Texas A&M in 10 of its 12 regular season games. Now, the Aggies only have Haynes King and walk-on Blake Bost on the quarterback depth chart. It was likely that King would’ve started for Texas A&M next season, so it made sense for Calzada to move on. However, the Aggies do not have many backup options at quarterback for next season, but that could change with Texas A&M’s 2022 recruiting class. Here’s how this move by Zach Calzada could affect Texas A&M.
How Does Zach Calzada’s Transfer Affect Texas A&M?
As a redshirt sophomore, Zach Calzada had a decent regular season by throwing for nearly 2,200 passing yards and 17 touchdowns. However, Jimbo Fisher expects more out of his starting quarterback, especially with the abundance of skill players on the outside. Calzada had a habit of favoring his inside targets: notably Ainias Smith and Jalen Wydermyer. He has the potential to make big plays, but his inconsistency is really what held the Aggies back from winning the SEC West.
Texas A&M loses quite a bit of offensive talent to the NFL Draft; this includes Kenyon Green, Wydermyer, and Isaiah Spiller. Offensive coordinator Darrell Dickey will require efficient play from King at quarterback for the Aggies to compete for a SEC Championship. This will be tough for the Aggies, for Haynes King has only started in two games thus far prior to his leg injury. If King does face injury issues again, Texas A&M will be forced to depend on Blake Bost or Connor Weigman if he does decide to sign with the Aggies.
Concluding Thoughts
In fact, Calzada could very well transfer to a SEC school to compete for a starting job. He has the skills to play quarterback at the Division I level, but he needs to improve his playmaking ability and be safe with the football. In a way, Zach Calzada’s transfer is good for Texas A&M since it gives Jimbo Fisher a clear outlook for his needs on offense next season.
Main Image courtesy: AP Photo/Sam Craft
