Texas A&M set to hire Stanford's Paul Williams as nickels coach

Stanford Cardinal defensive backs coach Paul Williams is expected to join the Texas A&M Aggies as their new nickels coach. Williams, who has been with Stanford for three seasons, notably improved the team's defensive performance in 2025, allowing the fewest passing touchdowns since 2021 and fewer than 30 points per game for the first time since 2018. He coached several standout players, including All-ACC performer Jay Green. Williams brings nearly 25 years of coaching experience, with previous positions at Wake Forest, Houston, Illinois, and Miami.

Williams' appointment at Texas A&M follows the promotion of Bryant Gross-Armiento to cornerbacks coach. The Aggies, who reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in 2025, were ranked 16th in pass yards allowed per game but struggled with interceptions, tying for 131st nationally with just three picks. Williams is expected to bolster the Aggies’ defensive coaching staff under head coach Mike Elko.