With the first game of the 2026 season slated for September 5 against North Alabama, the Arkansas Razorbacks are counting down the weeks to a fresh start under new head coach Ryan Silverfield.
The program endured a 2‑10 record last year, including a ten‑game losing streak that left fans yearning for a turnaround.
What could spark that turnaround is a comprehensive overhaul of the secondary, a unit that has been reshaped by offseason moves and internal promotions.
Key Cornerbacks to Watch
Jahiem Johnson, who helped Tulane reach the College Football Playoff in 2025, is expected to be one of the most impactful players on Arkansas’ defense.
Khmori House will line up as the slot cornerback, or STAR, bringing a season of experience from his time at North Carolina.
La'khi Roland spent the most time with the first‑team defense during spring practices, giving him a head start on chemistry.
Braydon Lee, a redshirt freshman who began his college career at Maryland, started two games and appeared in 11, recording 18 tackles and one interception before a high ankle sprain limited his spring workload.
Shelton Lewis, who previously played as a slot cornerback at Clemson, has been working primarily on the outside in Arkansas practices, adding depth and versatility.
Tyler Scott and DJ Hairston Jr. are considered wild cards, potential contributors who could surprise the coaching staff.
Carter Stoutmire, a former safety at Colorado who switched to the STAR role, may eventually return to safety as his new position develops.
Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts believes Lee has the potential to become a full‑time contributor in the SEC, a sentiment echoed by the coaching staff.
Last season the secondary allowed 239.3 passing yards per game, ranking 104th nationally and 13th in the SEC, a statistic that underscores the urgency of improvement.