A prolonged battle for the starting spot
Arkansas coach Ryan Silverfield said the competition for the starting quarterback spot will likely extend right up to the season opener on Sept. 5 against North Alabama, giving the staff extra time to evaluate both candidates.
Silverfield noted that teams such as Utah and Georgia have been studying the two prospects throughout the offseason, meaning an early decision could provide opponents with a strategic edge.
On the first day of fall camp, KJ Jackson took the first‑team reps, but Silverfield cautioned that this does not guarantee a clear advantage in the race.
Jackson finished last season 27 of 46 for 332 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in games against Texas and Missouri, showing a solid but not overwhelming performance.
AJ Hill, a 6‑foot‑4, 232‑pound redshirt freshman, brings two years of experience in offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey’s system and arrives after a stint at Memphis.
Silverfield emphasized that both quarterbacks are capable of leading the offense, and the staff hopes to name a starter before the opener while ensuring the decision is based on efficiency and decision‑making.
In each of the past three seasons Arkansas has employed multiple quarterbacks in victories over FCS opponents, averaging 52.7 points per game, a testament to the program’s depth.
The schedule after the North Alabama game includes a marquee nonconference matchup at Utah the following weekend, adding another layer of preparation for the Razorbacks.
Ultimately, Silverfield wants a quarterback who can protect the ball, make better decisions and drive the offense forward, a standard that both Jackson and Hill are working to meet.