2010 Arkansas Football Signees (25) Profiles/Projections

[Tomhog™]

   Pos Commit             ESPN  Rivals   Scout      Stats             Hometown      Status

1. OL Cam Feldt             81     4*      3*     6'5", 290, 5.3     Pilot Point, TX   HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Profile: Cam was the first commitment of the 2010 class.  He has been firmly committed since June of 2008 after impressing coaches with his performance.  He was a stand out at the Arkansas camp even though he had yet to start his junior season.  The Hogs offered and he jumped on it, never looking back.  Cam helped lead his Pilot Point high school team (where his father coaches) to a Texas State Championship and a 15-0 record.  He playes as a tackle on this level, but could be utilized as a guard on the college level.  Arkansas has accumulated some depth at the OL position, so it's most likely he will redshirt his true freshman season.  Cam should have a very productive career at Arkansas and could push for All-SEC honors.
 
2. LB Chris Smith            77     3*      3*     6'2", 230, 4.7     Mount Ulla, NC  HS
2010 impact: role player
Arkansas got a gem of a player out of North Carolina.  Chris has helped lead his high school team to two straight State Championships and a 30-game win streak.  His stats as a defensive end are amazing.  In the two seasons he posted over 200 tackles and nearly 50 sacks.  He was named MVP in the North vs. South Shrine Bowl pitting the very best of each state with 8 tackles, 2 sacks, and a fumble return for a TD. When facing opposing OL headed to the next level, Chris often got the better of them.  At times he seemed "unblockable".  On the college level he is projected to play as an OLB, but Willy has different plans for him.  He plans to use him as a hybrid LB/DE, confusing the opposing offense and providing him opportunity for sacks and tackles for loss.  Being a tweener is what likely kept his rating low.  His offers never mounted up after committing to the Hogs in June of 2009.  He was always clear that Arkansas was where he was headed.  There are no worries of his eligiblity.  He has a high GPA and was offered by the likes of Duke, Penn State, and Virginia.  I expect Chris to be one of the few to play as a true freshman as no one currently on the roster can fill what he is projected to do.  I expect we will hear his name and number called out often for sacks and tackles over the next four years.

3. TE Garrett Uekman      75     3*      3*     6'4", 235, 4.65   Little Rock, AR   HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Late last spring there was word the LSU offered someone in Arkansas by the name Garrett Uekman.  I remember thinking "Who?".  He was off the radar as far as in-state recruiting services and very few knew of the name.  But it did not take long for the Hogs and UCA to follow up with offers of their own.  Arkansas garnered his commitment on June 10th, and he never waivered.  That is likely why the offers didn't pile up like they would.  Garrett has an excellent knack of positioning himself for the catch and finishing with solid hands.  The only reason he won't see the field as a true freshman is the depth at the position.  With DJ Williams, Ben Cleveland, and Chris Gragg returning (all with excellent catching abilities) and Tate coming off redshirt, there isn't a need to burn Garrett's redshirt.  This is the class that Petrino will use to truly build depth for the future.  Garrett will have to hit the ground running in 2011 as only Gragg and Tate will return with TE experience.  He should have a productive career in Petrino's offense, a good bailout option for whoever the QB may be.

4. DT Jeremiah Jackson   78     3*      3*     6'2", 265, 5.0     Hoover, AL        HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Jeremiah isn't one on the DL that we have to worry about qualifying as he already has a qualifying test score and his GPA is sound.  In what looks to be the best DT class Arkansas has signed in decades, there will be a LOT of competition for the starting and backup slots.  Jeremiah has been one of the long time commits, when he pledged to Arkansas back in June, just days after Garrett.  Being in good academic standing, he received offers from academic schools like Duke and fellow SEC member Vanderbilt.  Arkansas was also chosen over other SEC schools including Ole Miss, Auburn, and Kentucky.  It's not often you can get an Alabama recruit out of state when offered by every in-state school (except Bama).  I don't expect to see JJ playing this season on the line.  Instead he will be given ample time to grow into SEC size to go along with his quickness and athleticism he already possesses.  There is no need to thrust him on the field too early.  Even the better players of this class will end up redshirting since Petrino has finally been able to build useable depth at the positions.  He will be SEC-ready in the 2011 season and have a productive career barring injuries.

5. TE Brad Hefley            76     3*      3*     6'5", 255, 4.9     Joplin, MO         HS
2010 impact: redshirt
TE is undoubtedly a loaded position for 2010. With DJ Williams, Ben Cleveland, Chris Gragg, and Austin Tate returning, there won't be much room (or need) for a true freshman to see the field.  To be honest, I'd much rather see Hefley on the defense as a MLB.  He could be the most aggressive run-stuffing MLB the Hogs have had in many years.  But, all indications are that he will play offense due to having good instincts and catching ablilities.  Brad stuck with Arkansas though fellow team mate Jordan Rainey dropped off the Arkansas radar.  He was offered by several states (Iowa St, Kansas St, Oklahoma St), so options were there.  He was one of the first to commit in the 2010 class back in spring of 2009 after the Arkansas invitational camp.  I'm sure that Petrino will find a place for Brad on the field after a redshirt year that will lend him plenty of playing time opportunity for at least his last couple of years.

6. ATH Braylon Mitchell       77     3*      3*     6'2", 208, 4.55   Heber Spgs, AR  HS
2010 impact: redshirt
I've tagged Braylon as a redshirt this upcoming year, but he is one that has a good chance of seeing the field sparingly.  He and fellow signee Jarrett Lake will likely fight for playing time at the OLB position as true freshman.  One will play, one will redshirt.  Interestingly enough, back when he was at an Arkansas camp in the 2009 summer, the coaches had him work out primarily as a running back.  Only for one brief workout did he try the line backer position.  Petrino may opt to keep him at the running back position to further bolster the lineup of big backs.  So look for him to start as a back when fall practice begins.  If he stays there, he will most likely get buried in the depth chart for a year, if not two.  His best chance at getting playing time over the next two years is on defense, where he was no slouch in high school.  Each of his last two years, Braylon accumulated over 100 tackles as a line backer.  His size and versatility is what sold Petrino on him early and the subsequent early committment in July of 2009.  He possesses not only intelligence to be a student of the game, but also a prowess that makes him an exceptional defender.  Braylon was wrapped up to Arkansas long before any recruiting service caught wind of him, thus the lack of other offers (save ASU which he was briefly committed to).  He will turn into a solid contributor in his career and will be one that keeps his nose out of trouble.  Arkansas will not regret signing one of their own as this has long been Braylon's dream school.

7. K Eduardo Camara      77     2*      2*     5'8", 155, -       Cedar Hill, TX     HS
2010 impact: backup
A kicker doesn't generally redshirt if he is offered straight out of high school.  Eddie is no different.  I can't see him riding the pine a whole year, unless the ACL surgery he was reported to have late last year needs more time to heal.  At some point, Tejada will lose confidence or focus and start missing the makable ones.  Petrino likely will not hesitate to go to the true freshman backup kicker.  Petrino has lost too many games due to special teams, thus the heavy emphasis this past recruiting season by signing two kickers in the same class.  Every scouting service has Cedar Hill, Texas resident Eddie ranked as one of the top kickers in the country.  As with many great kickers, his background began as a soccer player.  He also adds another talent in the years of martial arts training.  As Daniel Laruso focused to break those blocks of ice in the Karate Kid II, so will Camara use his prior training in other disciplines to shine on the field.  Once he takes the role as starting FG kicker, I don't see anyone able to unseat him.  Eddie will no doubt have his misses on the ones he should have made, but I predict here and now that they will not be the game winners/losers.  He may very well develop into one of the best FG kickers in the SEC if not the country.

8. S Darrell Smith           76     3*      2*      6'2", 185, 4.45  Port St Joe, FL   HS
2010 impact:backup
Darrell possesses the size and instincts to make a splash at some point in the season.  He is not afraid of a collision and has the intelligence to play in more complex defensive schemes. Though it will take some time for him to make the jump from high school.  His school Port St. Joe is in the smallest Florida classification, so the competition isn't to the level that some other incoming freshmen have played.  Give him about 2 months and you should see him rotating in and out, providing Arkansas with depth at the safety position.  There isn't much experience in the safety position other than Anthony Leon and Elton Ford.  So this is a good year to work into the 2-deep against Thomas, Rasner, and Mitchell.  In time if he bulks up and slows down a bit, you could see a shift to the OLB position.  Darrell had one of those offer lists that makes you think he is a reach.  Just ask Bobby Petrino, though, and he will straighten that out quick.  Darrell is one of his favorite signees of the class, if he was allowed to pick favorites.  The main reason schools had backed off him was not due to his size or playing ability, but his grades.  Now that academics appear in order, Bobby looks like a genius for hanging with him and accepting his commitment back in September.  I look forward to 4 years of hearing his name called out for making touchdown saving tackles and sacks fram blitzing off the edge.

9. LB Courtney Gaston     76     3*      3*      6'3", 205, 4.5    Ft. Gibson, OK    HS
2010 impact:JUCO
Unless Courtney has made strides in the classroom, he will have to double-sign with a JUCO.  I would hate to lose this player for a couple of years.  He has an excellent frame to build on and is a legit 6'3", though some services have him at 6'5".  He was rated the no. 19 prospect in OK.  Though having needs in the LB ranks, I don't imagine he will play as a true freshman.  He will develop into a formidable LB in 2-3 years time.  Courtney was invited to the Emfinger All-American bowl for his "unbelievable athletic talent".  He had a really good senior season, with 75 tackles, 24 for a loss, and 14 sacks.  He eclipsed that in his junior year with 115 tackles.  He also had numerous pass breakups and recovered fumbles to stall the opposing team's offense.  If his academics were in order, he would have likely had more offers and even might have been rated higher in the OK rankings.  It kept in-stae OU and OSU from offering Gaston.  But, he did have nice offers from Kansas, Kansas State, Texas Tech, and Tulsa.  Arkansas was the only SEC school to offer.  If he does make it to campus, I foresee 2, maybe 3 years of solid contributions.  He should work his way to a starting position by his junior year.

10. RB Jatashun Beachum 79     3*      3*     6'2", 275, 4.6    Dallas, TX          HS
2010 impact:reserve
It will be tough to keep this athlete off the field.  "Big Tex" has the size of a DT, but the speed of a DE.  He will no doubt get a shot at RB first and may very well become Arkansas' version of Jerome Bettis.  He will be a load to bring down and I think the only way he won't stay as the short yardage back is lack of desire or motor.  If he churns and bulldozes the way he's capable, he would be deadly in goal line situations.  In high school, he actually played the QB position.  With him there, the recruiting services had a hard time truly gauging his potential and it likely affecting his ranking.  Even the schools that were recruiting him couldn't agree what position suited him best.  He was being recruited as a RB, DT, and TE.  His list of suitors was quite impressive.  Offers from some of the best colleges all over the nation poured in during his senior year.  Arkansas won a fierce battle between them and Michigan.  For weeks there were rumors of him decommiting to the Wolverines.  But that never came to fruition.  Others in pursuit of him was Florida, Miami, Florida State, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, Utah, and Wake Forest.  It's hard to understand how he dropped from a 4* athlete to a 3* in light of all the offers he had in hand.  But now the stars don't matter anymore.  It's all about heart, desire, drive, and preparation to get ready for a weekly tilt in the SEC.  It's up to Big Tex whether he redshirts or not.  I'll have confidence in him that he will generate results and force the staff to not redshirt him.  He will then have four solid years, not necessarily putting up huge numbers, but having the strength to move the pile and keep the chains moving, allowing the defense time off the field to make strong 4th quarter stands.

11. ATH Eric Bennett       75     3*      3*     5'10", 176, 4.64 Tulsa, OK           HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Garrick McGee worked his magic in landing Tulsa standout athlete Eric Bennett.  His talent propelled him to the QB position at Booker T, where he became a play maker and became a blip on everyone's radar.  The only reason he was not rated higher is his lack of size.  He is versatile enough that he can play either WR or CB.  I expect Petrino (being the offensive-minded coach he is), will start Eric out as a WR.  But, I feel he will find his groove on the defensive side as a corner.  Unless he really shows out in fall practice and demonstrates maturity beyond a true freshman, he'll have a year to learn the system and grow before he is called to duty.  This does not sell his talent short at all as two years ago he would have been a no-brainer to play.  It's more a testament to Petrino and the fine program he has built.  Arkansas was one of the first to offer and have been on him strong for many months when he finally committed in October of 2009. It can't be said he was 100% rock solid as in January he visited Oregon State, and I can't blame him for that.  His other offers included in-state Oklahoma State, SEC-rival Tennessee, Texas Tech, Kansas State, and Arizona.  I project Eric will be a good contributor to this team for the last few years of his eligibility at Arkansas.

12. WR Marquel Wade      74     3*      3*     5'11", 180, 4.5   Jacksonville, FL  HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Arkansas got two for the price of one with Marquel Wade.  Not only was Petrino able to get this speedy, shifty receiver, his fellow Andrew Jackson teammate OLB Montaque Mack decided to follow him and walk on for the Hogs.  In most years past, Marquel would be a no-brainer to play immediately thanks to his speed and elusiveness.  But, the receiver position is quite stacked for the upcoming season.  Adams, Wright, Salters, Childs, Hamilton, Ray, Barlow, and Curtis return now as not only talented, but experienced (mostly) receivers.  Arkansas has not seen depth like this since being in the SEC.  Marquel does not quite possess the Jarius Wright kind of speed or the Joe Adams shake and bake.  But, he does have a vicious combination of the two that would be a difficult matchup for most corners.  With this combination, he was a sought-after recruit by many schools, including some within the boundaries of Florida.  It is always a positive addition when you can sign a Floridian away from the likes of Miami (FL) and South Florida.  Offers were also extended by fellow SEC members South Carolina and Ole Miss. Some other honorable mentions are North Carolina, East Carolina, Maryland, Indiana, and Illinois. Not only is Marquel a great receiver, but is a talented punt returner, an area that Arkansas has lacked for years. This past season, he returned 5 punts for touchdowns.  If he can develop better skills in blocking, he will be an all-around player that it will be hard to keep off the fiield after this season.

[Tomhog™]

13. OL Luke Charpentier   73     3*      2*     6'4", 305, 5.1     River Ridge, LA   HS
2010 impact: redshirt
The coaching staff must have seen potential in him other major SEC schools didn't see.  Luke (who is a one generation removed cousin to former NFL QB Bobby Hebert) had a list of offers from the likes of Kentucky, LA Tech, Southern Miss, Northwestern, Northern Illinois, Tulane, and SMU.  Arkansas was by far his most appealing offer, so it was no surprise to obtain his commitment back in November.  He is the most notable player to come out of River Ridge since DB Robby Green in 2008 and RB Joe McKnight in 2007.  At Luke's size he could stay at the tackle position he played in high school, or could be moved to the guard position.  The coaches will have a year to figure out where he best fits as he will redshirt his first year and grow into whatever position is determined.  The offensive line is starting to fill up with talented players at all spots, so earning a spot on the field will be challenging.  Luke will have to fight hard and outwork the others to crack the two-deep by his rs junior or rs senior year.  Luke will be a long-term project with definite upside if he develops on the next level.

14. QB Jacoby Walker    75     3*      3*     6'2", 210, 4.59    Spring, TX        Mid
2010 impact: redshirt
With the remarkable depth Arkansas currently enjoys at the QB position, it should be a no-brainer that Jacoby will redshirt.  There three very capable QBs in Mallett, Wilson, and Mitchell that have already had redshirt years to prepare them for Petrino's complex offense.  It's such a joy to see for the first time Arkansas building quality SEC depth at a variety of positions.  With that said, Jacoby is a PERFECT candidate for a Petrino offense.  He possesses tremendous intelligence and grit at the position.  He can make plays out of nothing and can use his feet to scramble out of bad situations.  This Texas product was not offered until late in the recruiting process.  Even though it was a late offer, it was by no means a bad one.  He had offers from the likes of Nebraska, Oklahoma St, Kansas, Kansas St., Iowa St., Syracuse, and Utah.  He was committed to the Jayhawks as late as November, but an possible investigation into the program had him rethink.  That's when Arkansas jumped on him with an offer to visit.  An added bonus for Arkansas was Jacoby's intelligence allowed him to finish high school early so he could enroll at Arkansas mid-term and participate in Spring drills.  And he did NOT disappoint fans in the Spring Game.  With Mallett out, it was up to the backups to shine.  He completed 6 of 11 for 183 yards, including a TD pass to Ronnie Wingo.  As a senior, Jacoby completed 148 of 238 passes for nearly 2,400 yards, with 25 TDs and 7 INTs.  He also rushed for 350 yards on 118 carries, scoring 7 TDs.  Jacoby will give any QB on campus a run for their money as he grows in experience.  He has the potential to be a solid 2 year starter if he continues to grow and makes the smart decisions he was recruited to.


15. DT LaCraig Brown      40     3*      3*     6'4", 261, 4.9      Monroe, LA       HS
2010 impact: redshirt
It's been quite a roller coaster ride for the Hogs in regards to the year LaCraig was recruited.  In September, LaCraig made the verbal commitment to play for Arkansas.  The big news was the reports of him chosing the Hogs over Alabama.  It was later determined that he didn't really have an offer from Saban.  In October, he went to "soft" commit status as he started shopping around. Then November he "officially" decommits, opening back up the process.  Then finally in January of 2010, he recommits and doesn't look back.  Even on NSD we wondered where he'd sign.  He has an excellent frame on which to build an SEC DT.  He's been reported to weigh anywhere from 259 to 275 according to the recruiting services.  Horton said he is currently up to 290.  By the time he reports to fall practice, he could be up to 295, maybe even push 300.  If that is indeed the case, and he shows up Byran Jones and Calvin Barnett (if he makes it to campus), it may be hard for the coaches to keep the redshirt on him.  He has done very well at combines and has shown one that is very difficult to block.  Emfinger has him as a top 250 player that will be a "super star".  I will stick with a redshirt prediction for this upcoming year, but he will work his way into the rotation early 2011 and become a solid backup a year or two before starting.

16. ATH Julian Horton      78      3*     3*      6'1", 182, 4.5     Norcross, GA     HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Just looking at his offers list would make you think he'd be a high rated 4* (Bama, OSU, Louisville, Maryland, UNC).  Another conclusion one could draw is he's another signee that we will have no worries about eligibility (UCLA and Vandy).  Julian is one of two signees this year out of Georgia.  A late addition to the Hogs (committed this January), the official visit to campus was all it took to sway him. As a junior, he was on high on everyone's watch list.  Some outlets were calling him one of the top athletes of the 2010 class.  His intelligence, athleticism, and strength separated himself from his peers, but the offers didn't roll in as expected.  I believe Arkansas ended up with a real steal in Julian.  His size makes him versatile enough that he could end up on either offense as a wide out or defense as a safety.  I believe he will project as a receiver at Arkansas.  He has the skills to be an outstanding possession receiver, lacking the speed of being a home run threat.  It's time for Arkansas to be prepared to reload on offense so no rebuilding has to occur as so many times in the past.  As deep as the team is at the receiver position, I'd imagine Petrino would be tempted to play him, but instead keep the redshirt on him and build towards the future of the program.

17. S Daunte Carr           79      3*     3*      6'3", 205, 4.57   Gainesville, GA   HS
2010 impact: backup
There will be a handful of the 2010 class that will get some playing time this season.  I believe Daunte will be one of them.  He already possesses the size to play, but also has unteachables like instincts going for him.  He is a player that largely flew under the radar after transferring before his senior season.  He quickly got back on it during his senior campaign, with 3 interceptions, 4 fumble recoveries, 104 tackles, several of which were tackles for a loss.  It was quite a surprise for the Hogs to get Carr as it was common knowledge that his first choice was Stanford in the PAC-10.  He had committed to the Cardinals but the call of the SEC was too great to turn down.  He made the flip to Arkansas in mid-January after receiving an offer just after Christmas.  Daunte is Steve Caldwell's first signee for Arkansas.  Eligiblity will not be a concern for this guy.  He had offers to schools like Stanford, UCLA, Wake Forest, and Duke.  Arkansas was not his only SEC option.  Ole Miss and Kentucky both extended offers, but they weren't the fit he was looking for.  I see a very productive career for Daunte Carr at Arkansas, possibly making All-SEC before it is all said and done.

18. WR M Humphrey         77      3*     3*      6'2", 185, 4.5     Hoover, AL       HS
2010 impact: reserve
Maudrecus might very well be this year's Cobi Hamilton.  Each year Bobby lands at least one stellar WR.  This one may be a gem.  He has excellent bloodlines (his father Bobby was a talented running back that played for the Crimson Tide and the NFL).  He has good straightline speed (he was clocked at 4.36 in the 40) and is very intelligent with his route running.  With a little polishing this fall, he could find himself in the receiver rotation and even an opportunity to catch 1-2 passes per game.  It will be tough to work his way into the rotation though given depth at the position.  But Petrino puts the ball in playmakers hands, and if he turns out to be one, he may very well get many opportunities.  Arkansas may very well end up with a tremendous steal with this one.  In-state powers Alabama and Auburn neither offered him, so he will have two chances each year to show them they missed out.  He did have some nice offers to chose from outside of Arkansas.  SEC members Ole Miss, Miss. State, and Kentucky all offered.  Nebraska, West Virginia, Lousiville, Southern Miss, Troy and UAB also parlayed into the mix.  He was not quick to commit to the Hogs, but instead took January visits to Fayetteville, Miss. State, and Kentucky before commiting the the Hogs just a couple of weeks before signing day.  It will be fun to watch this receiver make plays over the next four year.

19. K Zach Hocker          76      2*      2*     5'11", 165, -      Russelville, AR   HS
2010 impact: starting punter
Zach was an excellent plan.  Plan A William Russ opted to flip to the Shorthorns, but gave Arkansas enough time to come in with an offer to the best kicker in-state.  Several here were clamoring for him to get offered, and they got their wish.  Does a kicker ever redshirt? I don't remember one that has at Arkansas. You expect a kicker to come in right away and make contributions.  Arkansas needs help in all three areas: field goals, punting, and kickoff.  Hocker will get an equal shot at FG kicking duties, but I see his areas of contribution being kickoff and punting.  In high school he averaged right under 80 yards per kickoff.  If he can repeat that in college, there will be a lot of touchbacks (something we haven't had in many years).  In punting, he averaged 41 yards with a nice hang time of 4.5 seconds.  I really look for him to take over both duties and the result will be a much improved special teams for the next four years.

20. ATH Jarrett Lake       79      3*      3*     6'2", 210,          Jenks, OK         HS
2010 impact: reserve
Jarrett Lake was another great steal out of Oklahoma for the class of 2010.  He flew under the radar until last summer when he went to the Arkansas camp and impressed the staff enough that he left with an offer.  Then at the Oklahoma Elite Camp he had an equally stellar performance and went home with an offer from the Sooners.  He committed to Oklahoma soon after the camp.  But after concerns of eligibility were raised, the Sooners cooled off him and eventually pulled the offer.  The closer it came to signing day, the more apparent it became that Lake has a good shot at making it.  The scholarship offer removal was all it took to sour the relationship and McGee swooped in for another great signee.  It's not a foregone conclusion that he will make it yet, but all signs point to him being ready this fall to contribute.  In high school he played both ways, as a receiver on offense and a linebacker on defense.  He led the team to the state title game two years in a row, winning it the second time there.  He had quite a list of regional offers including Oklahoma, Oklahoma St., Missouri, Kansas St., Tulsa, and Wyoming.  Lake is good enough to be a contributor this fall at the outside linebacker position.  In time he should develop into a solid run stopper on the outside and every now and then get the chance to pop the opposing quarterback in the backfield.

21. DT Byran Jones          78      4*      4*     6'3", 295, 5.1     Junction City, LA HS
2010 impact: reserve
Some consider Byran to be an in-state signee while others declare him an out-of-state signee.  Both would be correct since he attends school in Arkansas, but technically lives on the Louisiana side of the border.  His hometown is divided between the Hogs and the Tigers, though in my experience the balance tips to the south.  The expected fierce battle with LSU never came to fruition as Les Miles never extended an offer.  Instead, the battle was between a Tiger of a different nature, Auburn, and the darkhorse contender, Louisiana Tech.  In the end, Byran visited all three schools, saving Arkansas for last and did not make his intentions known until National Signing Day.  Arkansas fans were thrilled to see him and Alan Turner sign with the Hogs, further bolstering a defensive line that has been suspect.  This marks two years in a row the Hogs have dove into north Louisiana and sign a blue-chip DT (DD Jones being last year).  Just as the other Jones' talent was too great to redshirt him, I expect Byran to get a little bit of playing time this year.  His early arrival to campus makes me more confident in that assessment than ever.  As of this year, depth at DT will no longer be a sore spot.  Byran is a very strong athlete, reporting high bench press and squat.  Yet, he is also one of the few that is fleet of foot regardless of his immense stature.  He will be a fun one to watch mature and grow on the field into a potential all conference player.

22. ATH Alan Turner        60      2*      1*     5'11", 185, 4.5    Junction City, AR HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Alan no doubt had the great fortune of being in the same class and playing at the same school as the most coveted in-state prospect of 2010, Byran Jones.  Though a very productive RB and defender at Junction City, he didn't quite have the measureables to earn an SEC offer in his own merits.  We'd like to think that Petrino doesn't offer package deals, but this one certainly seems to be the case.  Maybe Petrino sees something in him that only nearby Lousiana Tech saw.  One advantage Alan will have is weight room ethic.  His high school consistently wins weight lifting contests even against larger schools.  Another advantage is his team is used to winning.  The Dragons have been a regular in the Class 2A State Finals.  Alan also is the 2-time defending state champ in 200-meter sprint.  With his size and speed, Alan will likely end up in the safety position.   He could develop into a role player, possibly on special teams, after 2-3 years in the system.  I am not expecting great contributions from Alan, but if he does mature into a starting role, I will be pleasantly surprised at his development on the next level.

23. OT Denton Simek       77      3*      2*     6'6", 260, 4.86    Prague, OK         HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Denton was a huge surprise addition to the 2010 class.  No one even knew Arkansas was on the radar for this kid.  It just goes to show that this staff isn't open about its every move involving recruiting.  What a surprise to learn that an OT out of Oklahoma originally committed to Texas Tech signed with the Hogs.  Last minute additions are nothing new to the fanbase.  Every year there is a signee now one anticipated.  But until recently they were always head scratchers and reaches with no other BCS offers.  Not the case this time.  Denton had a very nice list of offers to choose from, including Arizona, Louisville, Texas Tech, Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado, Baylor, Kansas, Kansas State, and even in-state Oklahoma State.  Academics will be no problem for Denton as made obvious from offers extended by the likes of Duke and Vanderbilt.  There is some disparity among the recruiting sites as far his size and where he projects to play.  Most agree he is 6'6" and at least 260 lbs.  So with that height, he'd best be suited as an OT.  His speed and athleticism will help counter the speed of opposing defensive ends.  It will likely take him two years to develop into a formidable tackle, allowing Veldkamp the time to build him up to SEC size.  He will provide 3 years of solid line play for the Hogs, working into a starting role his 4th and 5th years.

24. WR Jay Herndon        40      2*       1*     6'1", 170, 4.47   Jacksonville, FL   HS
2010 impact: redshirt
Easily the 2010 surprise signee of the class, Javontee "Jay" Herndon was not on anyone's radar in the BCS schools.  His high school had already held their National Signing Day ceremony that morning, signing three kids.  Yet Jay had no offers, so he didn't take part.  Much to his surprise (and everyone else's), he got the call later in the afternoon that Arkansas offered him a scholarship.  He accepted and signed the LOI in no time, without ever setting foot on campus.  The coaching staff had been following him for months, but never extended the scholarship.  It may be due to the fact he only played in four games.  He had nagging ankle injuries that limited his play this season. The staff may have wanted to see if he'd fully recover.  I don't think they considered him a plan B.  Academics were not a concern.  Looking at his highlight video, one would suspect he'd be a highly sought after recruit.  He runs crisp routes and can come down with clutch grabs.  Even the recruiting services had scant information on him.  Jay was Bolles deep threat, averaging nearly 25 yards per catch.  He could flip the field in a hurry.  On the field he had 17 catches for the season in the four games he played.  He managed to turn 11 of those receptions into touchdowns.  His team won yet another state championship, where he caught all 3 of their touchdown passes. I look for Jay to have 3 productive years at Arkanas after redshirting his first and spot play as a reserve the second.  The Hogs are building up quite an array of receivers, where they will only reload instead of rebuild.

[Tomhog™]

25. DT Calvin Barnett       79      4*       4*     6'3", 330, 5.1    Tulsa, OK           HS
2010 impact: JUCO (back up if eligible)
One of the most important signees of the the 2010 class probably won't see the field at Arkansas for at least two years.  A last minute flip by Calvin to join fellow team mate Eric Bennett, Arkansas added to an already strong DT class.  He is rated just a bit higher than other DT signees Byran Jones and Jeremiah Jackson.  But, no matter how highly rated he is, he won't get a shot this upcoming season.  Even though it appears this year's class will only have a couple that won't qualify, they are a very important couple.  Calvin is rated the number one player of his class in Oklahoma.  His size is already at the SEC level, so he could bring an instant help and depth at a position that in the past has be precariously thin.  He had offers from practically every SEC and Big XII school, too many to name here.  If he does manage to qualify and stays in decent condition during the off-season, I could see him playing a large backup role as a true freshman.  That'd be followed up by three years of starting and an All-SEC type season or two.

Walkon/Grayshirt
1. P  Weston Cox           NR      NR     NR      6'0", 165          Jonesboro, AR   HS


Decommits
1. DE Dimitri Orr             40     3*      2*      6'6", 230, 4.8    Oxford, AL       academic
2. OL Jordan Rainey        40     3*      2*     6'5", 300, 5.3     Joplin, MO       academic
3. K William Russ           40     3*      1*     6'3", 170, -         Shreveport, LA  Texas
4. WR Armand Williams   78      3*      2*     6'3", 185, 4.5     Slidell, LA         LSU
5. ATH Deonte Welch     40      3*      1*     5'11", 185, 4.5   Williston, FL      USF
6. WR Joseph Byrd        77      3*      1*     5'10", 170, 4.41  Cape Coral, FL   WF

[newera]

I love this class.

[idiotghos]

I might as well reserve premium space in what's sure to become a highly-viewed thread too.

[Zen_Hog]

We're not going to count the DT from Louisiana?

[irishman]

Any idea where he would line up on the line?

6'5 290 is a good frame... He'll have plenty of time to bulk up a bit. If he's that big now I would guess he could put on another 15 pounds or so by then. Might make a good tackle

[h0gfan6]

Do we have any videos of Feldt?

[ThisTeetsTaken]

If my future self reads this (and I'm sure he will),  START RUNNING AGAIN FAT BOY!

[booogaga]

i wonder how many recruits we will be looking for next  year? like this year we signed 30 +, will we do the same next year?

[Hogtropolis™]

Tomhog, what's the story with Basmine Jones?  I thought I had heard somewhere that he had already committed again.

[hog_fan]

Tomhog, what's the story with Basmine Jones?  I thought I had heard somewhere that he had already committed again.

He doesn't have an offer. I believe he said he committed, but he didn't actually have an offer. I expect we will bring in 25 again next year. All depends how many seniors graduate and any transfers and if anyone goes pro

[ThisTeetsTaken]

i wonder how many recruits we will be looking for next  year? like this year we signed 30 +, will we do the same next year?

I don't see how we could unless we knowingly signed some kids that were don't have a chance to make it but I doubt that we see this staff do that very many times in the future.

[pigz]

That kid from Little Rock can fly

[Wildhog]

I guess I'm here for the future as well. 

And bring on Byran Jones.

[touchdownark]

the commitment isnt highly rated

[Hogtropolis™]

the commitment isnt highly rated

If you're not trying to be funny, then it's because he hasn't been rated yet.  I don't think anyone from the class of 2010 has been rated yet.

[J.A.Y.]

the commitment isnt highly rated

yes he is.

[Nutts and Bolts]

Shouldn't this be stickied?

[DeltaBoy]

I am pumped about the Pipeline Bobby and the Staff have reopened into Texas.  Hatfield loved to raid the state for talent.

[philobeddoe]

I guess I'm here for the future as well. 

And bring on Byran Jones.

We were the first to offer, Horton has been down here twice in the last two weeks and will be back next week.  I'd say he is a priority.

[Supermark101]

We need someone to list the juniors that have been offered.

[TrojanHog]

Don't we also have a 2010 commitment from a DT from Louisiana, RD did a story on him awhile back.  He didn't sound all that solid, but he did say he was a commitment at that time.

[josh_sec33]

I love to see that the current coaches are recruiting multiple years at all times.

[Hogbody]

I hope we offer Eldon soon

[Nutts and Bolts]

I look forward to seeing this list grow and grow with some talented kids...

[tusksincolorado]

TomHog, you and RD really need to take a serious break. Rest up! Next season will be as exciting as this past! GO HAWGS!  :razorback:

PS Thanks for all you do!

[Tomhog™]

I went ahead and put in our 2011 commitment in the second post since it will be a while before we fill up with 2010 commits.

[Hoggy1]

_________Space Reserved for Future Excitement___________

[Huds_HawgTide]

what about the kid from evangel in la and basmine jones from warren...have we offered eldon thompson yet?

[RICKHOGHEAD]

TomHog, you and RD really need to take a serious break. Rest up! Next season will be as exciting as this past! GO HAWGS!  :razorback:

PS Thanks for all you do!

I second that!

[razorback3072]

i wonder how many recruits we will be looking for next  year? like this year we signed 30 +, will we do the same next year?

Coach Horton was on the radio the other day it sounded like they expect to bring exactly 27 on campus this year and that next year they did not expect to sign as many as they did this year and maybe not even the full 25.  It definitely sounded like they are going after the in-state kids hard and going for quality over quantity.

[jrw11475]

Here we go again.  The excitement just starts over.  Here's to matching or beating this just signed class.

GO HOGS!!!!!!

[Huds_HawgTide]

reel em in BP!

[WoooPigSooie]

That kid from Little Rock can fly

I did hear he likes the Red Bull.   

[The Great Hambino]

i love these type threads. thanks tom

[hawgtastic]

What's the word on Michael Dyer?  I know it's early in his recruiting process and he's liable to be offered by dozens of BCS schools but has he given any preliminary reports on who the early front runners are for him?  Also, how will Ronnie Wingo and Knile Davis's signing affect whether or not Dyer will want to be a Hog?

[Tomhog™]

I don't think their signing affects Dyer.  I believe Arkansas is in the lead for him right now.

[OneTuskOverTheLine™]

That's a bunch of defensive help on the way!!

[hootiehater]

I don't think their signing affects Dyer.  I believe Arkansas is in the lead for him right now.

Woo Hoo!! I hope not == I would think the competition would make big time players look even more forward to the challenge.

[DeltaBoy]

This is shaping up real early to be another Homerun class.

[Tomhog™]

This is shaping up real early to be another Homerun class.

From early indications, it should be another top 15 class for the Hogs.

I am predicting (and hoping) Arkansas signs two 5* recruits in this class.

[NWAREDBUG]

What's the word on Michael Dyer?  I know it's early in his recruiting process and he's liable to be offered by dozens of BCS schools but has he given any preliminary reports on who the early front runners are for him?  Also, how will Ronnie Wingo and Knile Davis's signing affect whether or not Dyer will want to be a Hog?

The signing of other backs doesn't affect Dyers likes or dislikes abount any program... Michael like's Arkansas but at this point in time there isn't a front runner.

[jackflash]

any school that signs Dyer next year will go after another great Rb the next year. And Dyer knows this.

EDIT - I took out the punctuation that made this post difficult to read

[TechHog]

I honestly think that with the re-vamped offense this year, more and more 4 &5*  WR's will want to play in Petrino's system.

[jonesark™]

I too believe this class has the potiental to be even better than 09!! We will have more instate talent and will be coming off a better season!! Get'em BP!!!

[RazorBassin]

From early indications, it should be another top 15 class for the Hogs.

I am predicting (and hoping) Arkansas signs two 5* recruits in this class.

And 8 4*'s, that is my prediction.

[PrescottHog]

would it be against NCAA rules to let DMAC talk to Dyer and try and persuade him to be a hog.

[Zen_Hog]

would it be against NCAA rules to let DMAC talk to Dyer and try and persuade him to be a hog.

It probably is, but you can't prevent it. What if they bump into each other at the LR Mall? I'm sure McFadden will tell Dyer he can be better then him, and why not do it at Arkansas.

[bigarrazorback]

hey tom do you think you can get something started on KYSO Recruits that we should be looking for. for us who really don't know about alot of these guys.