In November 2023, Mike Elko, formerly the Aggies’ defensive coordinator and then head coach at Duke, was hired to replace Fisher. ([AP News][2])
Early into his tenure, Elko emphasized culture change, accountability, and consistency over big promises. He has made public remarks drawing contrasts between the past and present, especially after notable wins. ([U.S. News & World Report][3])
Elko’s Comments & Fisher’s Reaction
While there is **no public record** of Fisher sending a direct “message” or open letter to Elko, the media and public perception treat several of Elko’s comments as implicit commentary on Fisher’s era. Key moments:
1. **Post-LSU Victory (October 2024):**
After a comeback win over LSU, Elko said:
> “This is a real program. It’s not fake. It’s not a politician running this program, talking fast and BS’ing everybody. This is a real program… if you want to be really good at football, this is a really good place to be.” ([CBSSports.com][4])
Many interpreted that as a veiled critique of Fisher’s style—suggesting that previous leadership was more about messaging than substance. ([Sportskeeda][5])
2. **Elko Clarifies:**
Following the interpretation, Elko denied directing those comments at Fisher:
> “I have nothing but respect for Coach Fisher. I’ve said nothing but positive things about Coach Fisher. I’m the head coach at Texas A\&M because of Coach Fisher. I appreciate who he is, everything I’ve done.” ([CBSSports.com][4])
So, while the media and fans read “messages” or “shots,” Elko maintains the remarks were about broader culture, not necessarily aimed personally at Fisher. Fisher himself hasn’t made public statements responding to these comments in a similarly pointed manner.
—
## What Fisher Has Said About Coaching Again
Though not directly responding to Elko, Fisher has recently spoken in public about his future:
* He still wants to return to coaching if the **right opportunity** arises; he’s healthy and feels he has much to give. ([Statesman][6])
* Reflecting on his time at Texas A\&M, he acknowledged the up and down aspects of his tenure—injuries, promise, but also frustration at unmet expectations. ([Statesman][6])
—
## Implications & What to Watch
* **Culture vs. Style:** Elko seems intent on distinguishing his regime from Fisher’s in how things are done, not just in what’s promised. This could lead to shifts in recruiting, player relations, and public messaging.
* **Public Perception:** Elko’s clarifications show awareness that his words are being scrutinized. Fisher’s acknowledgement of wanting to coach again suggests he’s watching, and people around the program are comparing both their legacies.
* **Future Matchups & Outcomes:** The way Texas A\&M performs in the next seasons will likely inform how much Fisher’s message—if indeed directed—resonates. If Elko delivers wins and consistency, the contrast becomes sharper.
—
## Conclusion
While the headline “Jimbo Fisher sends message to Mike Elko” is compelling, the situation is more nuanced. Elko has made remarks interpreted by many as criticism of Fisher’s former leadership, but he has also publicly denied that his words were aimed specifically at Fisher. Fisher, for his part, continues to reflect on his legacy and expresses interest in returning to coaching, but has not (that we know of) issued any direct public response to Elko’s statements.
