Aggies Announce MVPs, Other Spring Game Awards
COLLEGE STATION -- While the Maroon and White game gives Texas A&M players a chance to leave it all out on the field, it's also a time to honor players for their efforts in spring practice.
Several names were highlighted at halftime for their improvements in practice.
Sophomore receiver Noah Thomas was named A&M's Offensive MVP after expanding his rep count from a season ago. Thomas, a 6-6 pass-catcher from Pearland, was one of the bright spots for the Aggies' passing attack late in the season.
Thomas' role expanded following A&M's Week 8 loss to South Carolina. Moving into a more predominant role as the Aggies' No. 4 receiver, Thomas hauled in five catches for 51 yards in 11 games. Against Ole Miss, he caught his first touchdown on a 2-yard slant route in the fourth quarter.
Thomas also caught a 22-yard touchdown pass from fellow 2022 recruit Conner Weigman against UMass.
Sophomore defensive back Bryce Anderson and defensive lineman Shemar Turner were named Defensive MVPs of practice. Anderson is expected to replace Antonio Johnson as the team's starting nickel defender, while Turner should remain a staple up the middle at defensive tackle.
A native of Beaumont, Anderson has been the talk of spring by veterans for his ability to make plays everywhere. Last season, Anderson finished with 28 tackles and two forced fumbles. Turner, a former 2021 commit, started all 11 games last season and registered 32 tackles.
Here's a complete list of all the awards handed out at halftime:
Defensive MVP: DB Bryce Anderson and DL Shemar Turner
Offensive MVP: WR Noah Thomas
Special teams MVP: DB Sam Matthews and DL Isaiah Raikes
Defensive most improved: DL Walter Nolen, DL Albert Regis and DL Drew Beltran
Offensive most improved: OL Mark Nabou and Remington Strickland
Community service awards: WR Ainias Smith, TE Max Wright and OL Kam Dewberry
Academic excellence awards: RB Amari Daniels, DL Fadil Diggs, LB Taurean York, LS Levi Hancock, tight end Fernando Garza II, OL Kam Dewberry and DB Tony Grimes, Jardin Gilbert and Will Smoot.
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