Aggies RB Rueben Owens Listed As Top 50 CFB Newcomer

Rueben Owens could end up being the top name to watch for at Texas A&M on offense in 2023.

Everyone knows that for Texas A&M to remain in contender conversations, it'll need exceptional play from the quarterback position. And while the battle between Conner Weigman and Max Johnson is something to monitor, so is the running back role. 

The Aggies have a question mark at the running back position for the first time in three years. Yes, they have options. Countless, to say the least. The difference, however, is the production. 

No one wondered who would replace two-time 1,000-yard runner Isaiah Spiller when he announced his intent to go pro in 2021. De'Von Achane, who averaged an SEC-leading 7.0 yards per carry, filled in with the first-team offense and didn't miss a beat, rushing for over 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns. 

Achane now is looking to carve out a role in the Miami Dolphins backfield. Back in College Station, first-year offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino and Jimbo Fisher will need to find a player who can match the production lost by the home run threat on both offense and special teams. 

ESPN recently released its top 50 newcomers and transfers to watch for in 2023. Represent A&M was freshman Rueben Owens, who could surpass both Amari Daniels and Le'Veon Moss for reps by midseason. 

Owens was one of the top running backs in the 2023 class and flipped his commitment from Louisville to Texas A&M. He had over 7,000 rush yards and 100 rushing touchdowns in his high school career and was one of the top players in Texas for his class. The Aggies' leading rusher from last season, Devon Achane, is now in the NFL and the staff is looking for his replacement. Both Amari Daniels and Le'Veon Moss are returning, but Owens should have a good opportunity to see the field given his talent level. - ESPN 

Since arriving on campus, Owens has made his presence felt. He's caught the eye of players and coaches alike thanks to his elusiveness in the open field and ability to fight for the extra yards after contact.

“He is a really intelligent young man, in my opinion," Fisher said of Owens during spring practice in March. "(He is) a big-time player and a big-time recruit, but he works his tail off. I have been very happy with his intelligence and his ability to go to work, strain, and learn to give effort on every play and not rely on his talent."

A&M could follow the running-back-by-committe approach early in the year to expand the rep count for each tailback. Fisher said at the start of fall camp that he's been pleased with all three runners and their versatility to make plays.

Owens, the first five-star running back to commit to A&M since Trey Williams in 2012, might provide the most upside long-term. Fans will see how quickly he adapts to the offense on Sept. 2 when the Aggies play host to New Mexico. 

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