Mike Elko Gives Encouraging Injury Update on Aggies Receiver

The Aggies have lost a key member of the receiver corps for an extended time with a serious injury.

Sep 3, 2022; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Troy Trojans wide receiver Jabre Barber (5) runs after catch as Mississippi Rebels defensive back Davison Igbinosun (20) defends during the second half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images / Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

The Texas A&M Aggies had a stellar NCAA Transfer Portal haul this offseason, with more than 20 players making their way to College Station in hopes of making an impact.

One of the players who many had high expectations for, was former Troy receiver Jabre Barber, who was beginning to carve out a nice role for himself in the offense throughout spring practice - even making a case to be the team's No. 1 wideout.

However, that progress has now hit a substantial roadblock during the spring, with Barber being forced to miss 'several months' after undergoing foot surgery.

Now, however, it appears there is some good news in regard to his availability this season.

Oct 14, 2023; West Point, New York, USA; Troy Trojans wide receiver Jabre Barber (1) runs after a / Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

During Wednesday's SEC teleconference, Aggies head coach Mike Elko revealed to the media that barber is 'getting closer' and should be able to see the field this season.

“Yeah, I think he’s progressing and I think we’re getting a little bit closer,” Elko said. “I don’t know if I have a firm grip on exactly when we’ll be able to get him back out there, but I think he’s for sure getting closer and we’re excited to get him out there.”

Barber came in alongside other offensive weapons such as Cyrus Allen, Wesley Watson, Javon Harvey, and Garrett Miller, to try and help replace the losses of Evan Stewart, Ainias Smith, and Jake Johnson. He was also beginning to emerge as a key special teams player, thanks to his ability to both return kicks and punts.

If indeed he does make it back to the field, which all signs point to, Barber will have one year of eligibility remaining, after playing in 32 games over the last three seasons, and making 132 catches for 1,674 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Last season with Troy, he was on the cusp of a 1,000-yard year, catching 75 catches for 999 yards and five scores.