Is Texas A&M leaving the SEC a potential move after the Longhorns' induction? Exploring the latest conference realignment moves

The rumors of Texas A&M leaving the SEC started earlier this year. The Aggies moved to the conference in 2012 following a tenure in the Big 12 and are currently linked to an exit following the arrival of Texas to the SEC. Here's a look at the possibilities for the Aggies in the ongoing waves of conference realignment.

---

Is Texas A&M leaving the SEC a potential move?

Considering some of the reasons Texas A&M left the Big 12 in 2012, there's a huge chance the university is considering a departure from the SEC. This is ignited by the official arrival of in-state rival Texas to the SEC after 12 years of both sides competing in different conferences.

While the Aggies’ Big 12 exit decision cannot be easily explained, one of the factors that played a role was its unhealthy rivalry with the Longhorns. The Aggies were seen in the shadows of their rival throughout their time in the Big 12 and this was uncomfortable for the school.

Texas, alongside Oklahoma, was the dominant school in the Big 12 and they had a significant influence on the decisions the conference makes. For Texas A&M, these decisions only enabled the Longhorns to thrive and promote its brand while the Aggies remained the “other team.”

The Aggies won't be open to allowing this to happen in the SEC. The school is reportedly considering a move to the Big Ten, which is considered slightly more financially buoyant than the SEC. With no binding contracts in the SEC, an exit is expected to be easy and seamless.

---

The Big Ten to have a school in Texas by 2026

According to college football insider Greg Swaim, the Big Ten is looking to expand its market to the state of Texas by 2026 in the ongoing wave of conference realignment. The conference is already adding four teams from the Pac-12 this offseason and remains open to expansion.

Swaim reported that Texas A&M and the Big Ten have been in intense discussion through third parties for the past six months over a possible realignment move.

The Aggies have the Association of American Universities accreditation, which Swaim says is crucial for Big Ten teams. He also reports that both parties are positive about getting the move completed before 2026.