The Arkansas Razorbacks took to the field on a Friday afternoon under a blanket of clouds, the temperature climbing to 94 degrees as the team entered its third preseason workout.
A Cool, Cloudy Start
Sophomore quarterback KJ Jackson showed why he is being watched closely, delivering two crisp throws to receiver Donovan Faupel that covered four and seven yards respectively. He later broke free on a scramble, gaining 15 yards and nearly reaching the end zone before being brought down.
The drill also featured running back Braylen Russell working the perimeter, picking up three and four-yard gains on RPO looks, while second‑team quarterback AJ Hill completed a 17‑yard pass and missed on an overthrow, hinting at depth at the position.
Defensive Highlights
On defense, cornerback Brandon Ford made a pivotal play, intercepting a deep ball from Cade Trotter that had threatened to become a touchdown, preserving the unit’s early momentum.
Cade Trotter, working with the first unit, threaded completions of 16, eight and 11 yards to Antonio Jordan, Jelani Watkins and Markeylin Batton, showcasing a balanced passing attack.
Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts praised Quincy Rhodes, describing the young end as a physical, athletic mismatch‑maker who could create problems for opposing offenses.
Freshman quarterback Hank Hendrix drew commendation for his poise and skill set, with coaches noting his potential to contribute at the college level.
Off the field, the athletics department announced that the ‘All In Fund’ has already secured $25 million, pushing the campaign toward a $50 million target after just ten months of effort.
Looking ahead, North Alabama will step onto the field in full pads beginning August 29, setting the stage for Arkansas’ first SEC showdown on September 5, a game that will test the early chemistry built during these practices.
Meanwhile, the team’s conditioning has shown marked improvement since summer workouts, and offensive lineman Kobe Branham’s new ‘reverse Mohawk’ haircut has become a small but recognizable symbol of the squad’s fresh energy.