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2009 Arkansas Football Signees (33) Profiles/Projections

Started by Tomhog™, February 07, 2008, 03:28:19 pm

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Tomhog™

This will be updated as recruits commit to the Hogs.  Click on the stars and NR to follow to the recruits profile.  Click on the numerical links for articles.

Team Rankings:
Rivals - 15th
Scout - 20th
Tom Lemmings - 15th

Pictures are used from the linked Scout profiles.  The first set of stars is the Rivals rating and link to his profile.  The second set is the same for Scouts.

1) Alvin Bailey           OG        R        S          6'4", 300, 5.3         Broken Arrow, OK     



2009 impact: Redshirt
I believe Petrino will try and redshirt all true freshmen OL this upcoming season, with maybe the exception of Oden.  Bailey already has SEC size and has nice speed and movement.  No sacks were made on his QB through the 9-3 season his team earned.  He has been a fan of Arkansas for years now and will add to a list of bigger, stronger lineman.  He will have to show a great motor and learning curve in Petrino's complex offensive line schemes to play any as a true frosh.  I expect him to be a 3 year starter down the road.  Alvin's other offers were Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska, Iowa State, and Michigan State.  He committed to Arkansas back on August 13th.  I am surprised he received no in-state "love".


2) Neal Barlow          WR        R        S        6'7", 190, 4.55       Little Rock, AR



2009 impact: Backup
Back in August, Neal committed to Kansas and it was thought he was going to stay with them.  But Tim Horton never gave up on him and was rewarded a month later when Neal flipped to Arkansas.  As a senior, he caught 96 passes for over 1,500 yards with 23 TDs for Pulaski Academy.  He helped lead his team to the class 5A state championship.  His "biggest" advantage is his height.  He is a QBs redzone dream receiver at 6'7".  He is also a deep threat because of his 4.55 speed and height.  He may not see much play early in the season, but by mid-season, he should be a role-player in red zone schemes.  He will catch many touchdowns in a Hog uniform.  Besides Arkansas, Neal reportedly had scholarship offers from Missouri, Kansas, North Carolina, LSU, and Tulsa.


3) Colby Berna          OG       R      S      6'4", 275, 5.1         Fayetteville, AR       



2009 impact: Redshirt
Colby was the first commit for the class of 2009 on Signing Day 2008.  He is good at both run and pass blocking schemes.  Rated as one of the best linmen in the country, Arkansas got a steal from him being in their backyard.  He is listed as a Guard on the recruiting services, but Petrino stated he could also play Tackle and Center.  He could have very well been a contributor on the line in 2009, but due to a left shoulder injury, he will probably be given a redshirt year to make sure it heals completely and allow him to grow into his position.  He committed so early to the Hogs and stayed so solid that other schools did not spend much time recruiting him, though Mississippi State, Texas, and Kansas State were showing interest.


4) Shauntez Bruce     OT       R       S          6'5", 300                Tallahassee, FL



2009 impact: JUCO
Shauntez was one of the handful of recruits Paul Petrino worked so hard to get this year out of Florida.  It paid off in January when he committed soon after his official visit.  Current RB Michael Smith is a native of Tallahassee, and helped play a part in his signing.  He could play either Guard or Tackle.  I believe he will develop as a Tackle at Arkansas.  In high school, he played a lot of TE as well.  For a big player, he is quick and light on his feet.  Very few linemen are ready to play at the SEC level their freshman year.  The staff will likely use 2009 as a year for them to mold his physique and home run and pass blocking techniques.  Though not a highly rated recruit, he turned down a nice list of offers including in-state Florida State and South Florida.  He also reported offers from Ole Miss, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, South Carolina, and Rutgers.  It's not often a school beats out a Florida school for a Florida player.  He could work into a starting position as early as 2010 if he has no qualifying problems that would force him to go to prep school or JUCO.


5) Ryan Calendar       DE        R    S               6'8", 220, 4.8         Caddo Mills, TX



2009 impact: Redshirt
Ryan was another early commit for the Hogs.  Back in May of 2008, Bobby Allen offered Ryan a scholarship and he jumped on it.  He is a multi-sport athlete, having talent in basketball, track, and baseball in addition to football.  To show his athleticism, on the very first kickoff of 2008, he took it to the house for a td.  In college he will concentrate on football and developing into an exterior defensive lineman.  He played defensive end, along with tight end and outside linebacker in high school.  To play end on the SEC level, he will need a year in the weight room and nutrition program to gain weight from the current 225 he checks in at.  He could develop into a very good rush end in time and be part of a stable of tall, fast defensive ends.  He could see plenty of time in special teams as a kick block specialist due to his height.  He blocked numerous PAT and FG kicks in his career.  Up until his commitment, he was being pursued by Tennessee, Nebraska, California, Texas A&M, and Arizona.


6) Rudell Crim            CB        R    S          5'11", 195, 4.37     Butler C.C., Kansas    

   

2009 impact: Starter
You don't recruit and sign JUCO players with the intention of them not playing.  Rudell is one of the handful expected to make an immediate impact in shoring up the Arkansas secondary.  Last year the secondary did not have enough speed to make an impact in the SEC.  That will be partially solved with the defensive back out of Butler CC.  Being the #1 rated JC corner with his 4.4 speed and 6'0" height will make him a formidable line of defense against the passing teams.  He has the chance to get moved in time to the strong safety position as a last line of defense or even as a slot receiver.  In the past two seasons he has netted 6 interceptions and ran one back for a td.  Rudell started as a RB and was good friends with Michael Smith.  His list of offers were spread out nationwide.  Arkansas secured his signature over Lousiville, South Florida, Oregon, Ole Miss, Kansas St, Iowa St, and Kansas.


7) Knile Davis           RB         R     S       6'1", 210. 4.5    Missouri City, TX



2009 impact: Backup
Unless the injury bug haunts Knile yet again, don't expect to see a redshirt on this player.  A series of unfortunate events kept Knile from completing his junior and senior seasons at his high school.  After only four games as a junior, Knile suffered a broken collar bone.  He did compile over 400 yards in that short span.  Then, his senior season was cut even shorter when he broke an ankle while playing on astroturf.  He will have a full year to rehab and get ready to contribute as a Razorback.  Even though being injured so early and often, he was still highly rated by Scout and Rivals.  Expect to see him run between the tackles often, utilizing his size and speed to pound out short yardages and occasionally break into the secondary for long runs.  Knile enrolled in January at Arkansas to give him a semester's edge on most of the 2009 class.  He will participate in Spring Practice and give us an early look at the promising Big Back that Petrino sought after.  Knile chose the Razorbacks over Georgia Tech and Big XII schools like Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M.  Mississippi State adn LSU are listed as offers too.  If he stays healthy, he will be a major four-year contributor to the program.


8}  Briton Forester     P      R      S            5'10", 175             San Marcos, CA



2009 impact: Starter
One of the most glaring needs after 2008 that wasn't solved on Signing Day was at the punter position.  Arkansas graduated two punters in two consecutive years and had no one on the roster that has punted at this level.  The only names being thrown out were quarterbacks as possible replacements.  Petrino instead went out to the JUCO ranks and found an unsigned gem in Briton Forester.  Many of his kicks his last year were pinned inside the 20, which gave him a seemingly average 36.2 yards per kick.  His longest two were 77 and 76 yards, with others in the upper 50s.  Don't expect to see any competition at this position.  When you offer a kicker, he is going to start almost every time.  He will handle all punting duties for the next two years at Arkansas.


9) David Gordon        CB       R           S      6'0", 175, 4.4         Tulsa, OK                  



2009 impact: Backup
It's not very often a school can go into Oklahoma and come out with a signee that OU and OSU have offered.  Garrick McGee got us a steal with Gordon at his relatively low rating.  He has unbelievable quickness (10.17 in the 100 and 21.22 in the 200) and has the height to go head to head against tall SEC receivers.  He will also be able to help the track team with his talent.  Don't be surprised to see Gordon returning punts or kickoffs as fast as he is.  He may even be placed as a WR with the tremendous burst of speed he can create.  Though, it would be nice to be able to redshirt true freshmen to give them a full season under the Arkansas weight program and to get adjusted to the speed of the game.  I just don't see that happening due to his natural ability at the position and the glaring need for shutdown corners.  Experience will be gained for him to be a 3 year starter in the future, but this season will be one where he is only on the field in given situations.  It will take players like this on the defensive side to produce key stops and compete for championships.  Gordon is going to be a defensive cornerstone for the Hog foundation.  Arkansas beat a whole host of big time offers, beating the likes of Oklahoma, Ok State, Michigan, LSU, Texas A&M, Mich St, Miami, and Texas Tech.


10) Cobi Hamilton        WR        R      S            6'3", 190, 4.56          Texarkana, TX



2009 impact: Backup
Petrino did an excellent job in evaluating the talent of Cobi, a former team mate of Ryan Mallet at Texas High.  Cobi had an outstanding senior season (64 catches for 1,071 yards and 14tds) and turned some heads towards the end of the recruiting year.  His 4.56 speed is very deceptive, having run a 10.4 100 and a 22.1 200.  That was good enough for 1st in both events at the meet.  It's tough to fit all the plusses in a short paragraph.  Petrino says every time Cobi touches the ball he can run it in for 6.  He loves the height that Cobi brings to the team.  He had numerous offers including a late offer by Texas.  Reported offers were Auburn, Kansas, KSU, Mizzou, Neb, Ok St, Baylor, and TCU.  It will be tough for Cobi to play a lot as a true freshmen.  The WR position will be a tough battle in the Fall.  Either Lance Ray or Cobi will end up redshirting.  I feel like Cobi will edge out Lance for the freshman deep threat spot.  Needless to say, with Mallett as QB, the WR rotation will be exciting to see.  I expect to see this WRs number called a lot over the next 4 years.

Tomhog™

February 07, 2008, 04:01:55 pm #1 Last Edit: July 14, 2009, 07:11:02 am by Tomhog™
11) John Henderson     DT         R     S              6'1", 300, 4.9            Visalia, CA



2009 impact: Backup
Depending on how well John makes a splash in fall practice depends on how much playing time he will see early.  He should be on the two-deep come opening game day, but will likely be the number 2 guy behind experienced Razorbacks.  But don't be surprised if come about mid-season John blows up and unseats a starter for his position.  Although he was not highly recruited, the Junior College transfer turned down offers to Kansas, Arizona, and Nevada to ink with the Hogs.  He will join fellow team mates Andru Stewart (already enrolled and will participate in Spring Drills) and Anthony Leon in Fayetteville.  Last season John tallied 18 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception.  He will be competing against the likes of incoming freshmen Robert Thomas and DeQuinta Jones for a spot on the depth chart.  His advantage is two years JUCO experience over the others still in high school.  Petrino believes his quickness and flexibility will benefit the Hogs in the SEC.



12) Rickey Hughey       DE/TE     R     S             6'5", 220 lb, 4.8        Stamps, AR



2009 impact: JUCO
After thoroughly impressing the staff during summer camp by catching everything thrown his way, Rickey was one of the few that received scholarship offers.  He was valuable on both sides of the ball as a TE on offense and a defensive end on the defense.  Arkansas recruited him to be another tall, fast, athletic end on the defensive front.  Rickey won't be seen in a Razorback uniform anytime soon.  Though signing with Arkansas, he must go the Junior College route to get his academics in order for school and conference qualifications.  He will likely redshirt his first year at Trinity Valley Community College and play his second year.  Then he was have 3 years to play 3 after.  If recruiting continues to get better like most anticipate, it will be tough for him to get offered again.


13) DeQuinta Jones     DT         R    S            6'4", 305 lbs, 4.92        Bastrop, LA



2009 Impact: Backup
Though one of the most highly regarded signees of the class, DeQuinta (DD) Jones will not be an instant starter on the Defensive line.  He has an SEC body as it is, so don't expect a redshirt out of him.  Petrino is looking to build upon the depth that was started last year with Lavunce Askew and Zach Stadther.  He has an excellent motor and a good pass rusher.  Coach Petrino had to battle the likes of Michigan (was a commit to), Alabama, Tenneesee, California, Auburn, Ole Miss, Miss St, and Oklahoma State.  DD will no doubt play some this upcoming season.  He will likely be on the two deep early in the year.  Unless the pros come calling early, expect to see him as a 3 year starter for the Hogs starting 2010.  He will bring a ferocity and intensity that will cause QBs much grief for the years to come.


14) Anthony Leon                R      S        6'3", 230, 4.55       Visalia, CA



2009 impact: Starter
You never sign a JUCO unless you believe he will add instant depth.  This is defintely the case with Anthony Leon.  "Juice" played one year at Florida State before transferring to College of the Sequoias, where Willy Robinson discovered him.  Possessing linebacker size, Anthony will bring ferocious hits and punishment to running backs that get through containment and wide receivers unlucky enough to be in his sights.  By mid-season you will not just see him often, he should be a starter after he learns the defensive system Willy employs.  Expect the whole defensive unit to be better as coach Robinson is able to open his schemes up instead of the simplistic ones he was forced to run last year.  Juice turned down a presitgious offer from USC, along with California, Minnesota, Oregon, and Arizona.  Leon along with Crim, are two of the best defensive backs coming out of Junior College.  He will only get to play for two years, but two years is better than none for the Hogs.


15) Kevin Lowery        DT       R        S             6'3", 285, 5.0        Gainesville, FL



2009 impact: JUCO
Arkansas will have to wait until the 2011 season to have Kevin Lowery available for the defensive line.  He was offered relatively quick on one of Paul Petrino's recruiting visits to the Sunshine State.  Kevin possesses a good motor and quick feet.  He will have a couple of seasons in JUCO to hone his technique and build his physique.  He made Florida All-State team as a senior, logging 61 tackles at his position.  Surprisingly, he had no offers from any Florida school.  If he did, he would have likely stayed in state.  But his low ACT score and gpa kept a lot of schools from offering.  Petrino knew he would be someone worth signing and placing to have in a couple of years.  Kevin was one of the lowest rated recruits that Arkansas signed and had no other offers that I am aware of.  He should have a couple of good seasons as a backup in 2011 and 2012 for the Hogs.



16) Brandon Mitchell    QB          R      S              6'4", 220, 4.5         Amite, LA



2009 impact: Redshirt
If it were up to Brandon, he'd be the starting QB this fall.  He was quoted in an interview saying as much.  Confidence is a great attribute to have.  But realistically, we have three quarterbacks that will get the benefit of the doubt since all three redshirted last year for different reasons (Mallett - transfer, Wilson - medical, Youngblood - development).  The only way I see Brandon seeing the field this year is if he performs at an extraordinary level in practice, or if the team sees injuries reduce the position depth.  Petrino's offense is complex and takes time to ingest and learn.  QBs more than any other position need a year to develop before they should be put on the field.  Many consider him to be a sleeper of the 2010 class as he was not highly rated or recruited.  He did have a few nice offers to Michigan, Miss St, and Tulsa, but opted to be a Hog thanks to this find courtesy coach Robinson.  He threw for 2,400 yds with 28 tds to 5 ints.  He also rushed for nearly 900 yards at a 7.5 ypc average.  Being 6'4" and 220 lbs, he already carries the build of an SEC QB.  Look for him to be the QB of the future for Arkansas.


17) Jerry Mitchell        CB          R       S         6'2", 198, 4.5         Mandeville, LA           



2009 impact: Redshirt
Mitchell was another Louisiana find much like the other Mitchell, Brandon.  There was not much tape out on him so the offers never did roll in until Gustav changed his destiny.  Forced to evacuate, the family opted to use the opportunity to visit the Arkansas campus.  During that visit, the staff viewed his video and offered him on the spot.  He accepted and the rest, as the common saying goes, is history.  He had an improved senior season with 57 tackles and 6 interceptions than his junior year with 38 and 5.  Jerry will be one of the many of the stellar class that will redshirt to give time to adjust to the faster speed of the game and to get more physical.  It is good that each position is building depth to the point where true freshmen are not used due to dire needs.  Jerry should be a solid backup in his career with potential to move into a starting role in his last year or two.  Though having no other offers, he did have the interest of several schools, including Florida St, North Carolina St, and LSU.

18) Austin Moss          LB         R     S         6'3", 210, 4.64       Rockwall, TX



2009 impact: Redshirt
Austin will certainly add depth to a line backer position that was dangerously thin in 2008.  Just jope he isn't needed in the 2009 season.  A year in the weight room and in practice will give him time to fill out his 6'3" frame a bit so he continue being a head-hunter on the SEC level.  The only way I see him playing much is an outstanding Fall practices performance or the injury bug plaguing the position.  Petrino wants to start a true redshirt program this year to build for next year and includes shelving potential stars for a season.  It gives time for young players to develop technique, strength, and confidence.  Austin was highly productive the last two years at his Texas class 5A Rockwall-Heath high school.  He amassed over 300 tackles in his junior and senior campaigns to go with 24 tackles for loss and 11 sacks.  Though he wasn't shown any love in the state of Texas, other than a Baylor offer, he had a nice collection of out-of-state offers.  Austin chose Arkansas over SEC foes Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Ole Miss, plus Kansas, Kansas St, Oklahoma St, Wisconsin, Arizona, Virginia, Lousiville, and Iowa State.  I expect to see a lot out of Austin in the coming years at Arkansas.  Proper development could turn him into All-SEC down the road.

19) Colton Nash          DE         R      S          6'6", 240, 4.8       Sulphur Springs, TX



2009 impact: Redshirt
Colton was one of the surprise commits of this class for me.  It's not hard to gauge a prospect's interest in a program, so when no one could contact him and get his take, it was assumed he was not going to ink with the Hogs, but with a Big XII team as he has alluded to for months.  How wrong that opinion was.  Instead, he became one of the last commits of the class.  Colton fits the taller, faster mold for DEs.  At 6'7", he could start as a Power Forward for the basketball team.  But, he will need a redshirt year to build muscle and adjust to college ball instead of being thrust onto the field before his time like so many had to last year.  Colton had an excellent senior year, leading the Sulphur Springs defense to a state championship with 108 tackles.  He chose the Hogs over several Big XII schools, including Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Colorado, Colorado State, Kansas, and Baylor.

20) Anthony Oden       OT                    6'8", 295,              Chatham, VA



2009 impact: Backup
Anthony Oden was a low-rated "diamond in the rough" recruit when he signed with Arkansas in 2008.  One year at Hargrave Military Academy prep school made a tremendous difference.  Rated one of the best OL in prep school, he is likely to push for playing time as a true freshman.  It really depends on how quickly he can pick up the play book.  The offensive line is still having problems protecting the QB in pass situation so Petrino may opt to play some incomers if they prove to do a better job.  No doubt about, the best player plays regardless of class.  And Anthony has the genes to be an outstanding performer.  His older brother, Greg, was the first overall pick taken in the NBA draft by the Portland Trailblazers.  His firm commitment to the Hogs kept a lot of schools at bay from offering.  Other reported offers were Indiana and Oregon State.

 

Tomhog™

February 07, 2008, 05:38:50 pm #2 Last Edit: August 07, 2009, 12:07:16 pm by Tomhog™
21) Ross Rasner          ATH       R     S             6'0", 200, 4.6         Waco, TX            



2009 impact: Redshirt
Ross was a hard-hitting linebacker on the high school level.  On the college level, he'll have to grow into that position.  He will likely redshirt his freshman year to add some size to his frame.  Then, he will start out playing in the safety position.  After some time in the weight room, he could be moved to the weakside linebacker slot, where he feels more naturally suited.  As a senior, he totalled 124 tackles with a couple of interceptions to boot.  He was equally productive on offense as a running back by averaging 10 ypc and 1,700 yds with 14 touchdowns.  He was an integral part in leading his Waco, Texas high school team to a state championship.  Petrino actually compared Ross to Tony Bua.  It would be a great thing for Arkansas if he could end up with similar results.  Ross should give four productive years to Arkansas and help build depth to a once-anemic defensive squad.


22) Lance Ray            WR        R      S        6'2", 185, 4.35        Havana, FL



2009 impact: Backup
Lance has a height/speed ratio that makes it tough to redshirt.  In all likelihood, one or more of the three signed WRs will redshirt.  Depth will likely not be an issue in 2009, returning a deep class from 2008 to go along with Miller, Fish, Wade, Salters, and Crawford.  It mainly depends on how quickly Lance adjusts to the SEC speed of the game.  He has all the tools to quickly develop into an outstanding receiver.  Hopefully, Lance will be another under rated receiver that blows up in college.  As a senior, he had 33 catches for 632 yards and 6 tds.  His signature was a hard fought victory, with Missouri making a last minute push for him.  He took an official visit on the last weekend before Signing Day and had Arkansas fans hoping he'd not flip to the Tigers.  In the end, he went with the school that has always enticed him.  Lance chose the Hogs over the likes of Missouri, South Carolina, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Kentuck, Iowa State, and Illinois.


23) Andru Stewart    CB          R        S     5'11", 190, 4.45     Visalia, CA       



2009 impact: Backup
Andru will have a leg up on all the incoming class since he was a December 2008 grad and had the opportunity to participate in Spring Practice.  As with every other JUCO, the last thing you do is redshirt one.  You expect them to make an impact immediately to some degree.  Though with Andru, he has 3 years to play 2 since he only played his sophomore year in Junior College.  While I don't expect Andru will ever be a starter at Arkansas, he will provide 2 quality years of added depth to the secondary as a 2nd teamer.  Don't be surprised to see him be a star on special teams though.  He blocked two kicks while playing for College of the Sequoyias last season.  Andru has a good pedigree as his father played in the NFL for 10.  His decision to go JUCO was not due to academics, but lack of offers.  This time around, he received offers from Arkansas, Memphis, Minnesota, and Temple.


24) Travis Swanson   OT         R       S        6'5", 271, 5.45       Kingwood, TX            



2009 impact: Redshirt
With two incoming offensive linemen with more experience (prep school, JC), look for every freshman to redshrit.  For a guy his size, he possess agility and and maneuverability.  He does need a year to build up strength to handle SEC defensive linemen that are not far removed from the NFL.  Expect Travis to be a Hog for 5 years, with incresing contributions each year.  Tremendous upside, he needs to gain about 25 pounds to be SEC lineman size.  He may have gained some of it already during this offseason in preparation for the upcoming Fall Practices.  Many expected Travis to go to the Big XII, he opted instead to roll with the big boys in the grueling SEC.  He turned down offers from Houston, Kansas, Texas Tech, Army, Arizona, and Houston to be a Razorback.


25) Austin Tate        TE         R        S       6'5", 230, 4.8         Harrison, AR              



2009 impact: Redshirt
Austin was certainly one of the most surprising offers for the 2009 class.  Not even being mentioned as a Division 1 prospect by the recruiting services, the TE from Harrison, AR received an offer from Arkansas.  Austin is expected to grow into an SEC TE in time.  He will need to spend time in the weight room and with coach Veldtkamp to add pounds the right way.  In high school, he played mulitple sports that kept him out of the weight room for the most part.  His upside is unlimited at this point.  Rivals put him in the top 10 Super Sleeper category around the nation.  As a senior, he caught 35 passes for 470 yards and 8 touchdowns.  He also punted for his school, so if Briton gets hamstrung, there is another option for special teams.  Petrino loved his work ethic, speed, and his ability to bring in the ball.  The only other offer listed for him was Arkansas State.  But towards the end of the year, Southern Cal (USC) were trying to get him to come in for a visit.  Had he been promoted better, I'm sure the offer list would have been much greater.


26) Robert Thomas    DT        R       S          6'3", 300                 Muskogee, OK



2009 impact: Redshirt
Robert definitely doesn't have to grow into the position.  At 6'1" and 300 pounds, he is already a formidable defender on the front lines.  Though coach Petrino wants him to trim up a bit.  He also has excellent speed, clocking 4.9 in the 40.  Ideally, redshirting DL as true freshmen is the way to go.  He will have to prove to Petrino that he belongs on the field early.  Petrino made it known quite early in the 2008 season that he isn't afraid to use freshmen on the field.  But the 2009 squad will be deeper than 2008 and afford the coaching staff to build a critical redshirt program.  As a senior, Robert made 89 tackles, including 15 for a loss.  He also had 5 sacks, forced 2 fumbles, recovered 2 fumbles, and blocked a couple of field goal attempts. Robert was offered early by Kansas State and he committed.  But an offer by the Hogs was too tempting to turn down and flipped his commitment.  Robert will likely spend a year or two working his way into the rotation and hopefully start his last couple of years.

27) Zhamal Thomas    OL        R       S       6'4", 315, 5.0           New Iberia, LA   



2009 impact: Backup
It's already been a long career for Zhamal and he has yet to play a snap in Division 1 football.  He spent a redshirt year with the LSU Tigers as a freshman before transferring to Navarro JC in Texas where he has been the past two years.  He helped lead his team to a 10-1 record and a number 1 ranking for a time.  He has the ability to play either guard or tackle, but will be assigned where he is most needed come this fall.  Zhamal was going to be a mid-term graduate and participate with the Hogs during spring drills like Andru Stewart and Knile Davis, but plans fell through and he is finishing up his academics at Navarro.  He has 2 years to play two, so expect him to be used heavily as a second teamer, with a good chance to work into a starter before he leaves.  He needs to drop a bit of weight as he currently carries around 320 lbs, but that should not be a problem once fall ball starts.  He was holding offers from Utah and Auburn, with LSU taking a second look at him.  But, he cancelled all visits and opted to call the Hogs.


28) Terrell Williams     LB/S     R        S       6'2", 210, 4.58        Tulsa, OK       



2009 impact: Redshirt
Terrell is another Eastern OK addition to the roster thanks to coach Garrick McGee.  Terrell is a versitile player that could play in the secondary, line backing, or wide receiver positions.  On defense, he accumulated 105 tackles with 7 sacks.  As a junior he had 100 tackles and 12 sacks.  He may get a shot at special teams or as a backup player mid way through the season, but I expect the coaches to give him a year to mature at the position they elect for him to fill, whether it be line backer or safety.  Line backer may be his best route towards early and often playing time.  He compiled a nice list of offers early, including Nebraska, Stanford, Ole Miss, Northwestern, Kansas State, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Oregon State, Tennessee, Rutgers, TCU, and Rice.  I expect Terrell to be a solid contributor of the program over the next 5 years.


29) Turell Williams     RB      R          S       6'2", 215, 4.5         West Helena, AR       



JUCO[/b][/i]
Turrell may be given a shot on the first day of practice at the RB position he was originally recruited for, but no doubt he would be an asset if moved to the LB corp.  He could be an outstanding outside line backer with his 4.5 speed and frame.  In all likelihood, he will have a redshirt year to acclimate to college football.  It's not a guarantee that he will be at Arkansas in the Fall.  He double signed with a Junior College just in case his academics aren't good enough to qualify.  His chances of qualifying are pretty good though, so there isn't much worry about that happening.  Turrell averaged nearly 10 yards per carry with 1400 yards on 144 carries for 20 touchdowns.  He also has able hands and could be an good all-purpose back if the need arises.  As a senior, he caught 23 passes for 358 and 5 touchdowns.  Turrell originally committed to Ole Miss, his first offer, early in the process.  Then, just a day after Arkansas and TCU offered, he changed his mind and decided to follow Darius Winston to Fayetteville.  He also held an offer to Tulsa, but they were never in serious consideration.



30) Ronnie Wingo      RB        R    S    6'3", 212, 4.4          St. Louis, MO



2009 impact: backup
With the recent re-break of Knile's ankle and the jury still out on Broderick Green's eligiblity, Ronnie will have the advantage going into fall ball as the big back.  Coach Petrino worked tirelessly to sign this player.  It's not often Arkansas goes out of state to land a blue-chip recruit, but it appears it's going to be a more common thing with this top-notch staff.  Month after month during the recruiting process Ronnie was told he is the big back Petrino needs to run his offense.  The 2009 season showed a sever lack in a runner that can punch it in from the one, or get that needed yard in 3rd and short situations.  Ronnie will get his chance to have that role come this season.  Ronnie is a very talented athlete, with tons of upside.  He played in the US Army AA bowl out of his position as a tight end.  I expect great things from him at Arkansas.  He tallied 4,500 yards in his high school career along with 48 touchdowns, breaking numerous records along the way.  His other impressive offers include Alabama, Tenneessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, and Minnesota.

Tomhog™

February 08, 2008, 11:59:57 am #3 Last Edit: June 03, 2009, 04:07:39 pm by Tomhog™
31) Darius Winston    CB       R    S 6'0", 180, 4.38        West Helena, AR



2009 impact: Starter
Darius may not start in the first game, but he will at some point in the season.  He is one of the top rated recruits Arkansas has signed in the past decade.  He has after-burner speed to go with excellent coverage skills and height to face tall receivers.  It was a topsy-turvy recruitment of Mr. Winston.  He was the second commit for the 2009 class just hours behind Colby Berna's decision.  But just a few months later, he re-evaluated his decision to commit so quickly and stepped back.  The Razorback Nation was in an uproar, but things turned out for the best as he recommitted a few months later.  He is rated 5* by both Rivals and Scout and both had him inside the top 5 at the positiong (3 and 4, respectively).  Looking strictly at his season stats, it would amaze some how highly recruited he was.  He had 86 tackles and 10 interceptions over his last two years. But, those numbers are deceivingly low.  QBs rarely threw his side of the field, so his opportunities were limited.  I believe the stat his senior year was that only 2 passes were completed all season to receivers he was covering.  Darius is an amazing player and one that will likely only bless the Razorbacks with 3 seasons before departing for the NFL to seek fame and fortune.  But it will be an amazing 3 years.  As far as other offers, whatever Division 1 college you think of, he was offered.

32) Caleb Evans          DE        R    S     6'4", 255, 4.61         San Marcos, CA



2009 Impact: Backup
He could work himself into a starting role this year. He missed last year due to imjury, but as a freshman he led the team with 11 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, and 8 QB hurries.  Yet he has put on a lot of weight, but still maintains his 40 speed.  He went against a huge OL in practice committed to USC (Brice Schwab 6'8", 320 lbs).  He should be ready for the SEC sized linemen this year.  The main question mark is if he will have enough credits to qualify for this fall or will have to wait until 2010.

Transfers:

scholarship:
33) Broderick Green    C.O. 2007       RB        R     S       6'1", 230, 4.57      Little Rock, AR    USC Transfer



2009 impact: Loss of Year
I'd be surprised to see the NCAA grant a waiver for him to be immediately eligible at Arkansas this upcoming season.  Though deep at the RB position, he'd be a most welcome additional option to put on the field.  Broderick is like a tank that runs over lesser defenders and and can gain the tough yards when needed.  At USC last season, he only had one game of prominence, but averaged 9 ypc against Wash St where he gained 123 yards on 18 carries and 2 touchdowns.  With him already using up his redshirt year his first year in Southern California, maybe the NCAA will take serious consideration into his waiver request to be nearer his sick grandmother.  I'm not holding my breath, but it is possible.  I anticipate he will give 2-2 good years of quality short gains at opportune times.  He is a great transfer into the program.  He had offers to many schools around the nation from USC to Penn State.


Walkons:

1) Adrian Moore   C.O. 2007     ATH                6'0", 205, 4.45       Pine Bluff, AR     (OSU Xfer)

2) Andrew Norman   C.O. 2005    WR                 6'2", 175, 4.46      Springdale, AR    (Tulsa Xfer)

3) Jovan Davis     C.O. 2006     ATH       NR              6'2", 210, 4.46       Dallas, TX   (Houston Xfer)

4) Derek Hatcher    C.O. 2009      QB       NR          -          6'1", 192, -          Orange Park, FL

5) David Hurd         C.O. 2009      OT         NR          -        6'7", 285, -          West Monroe, LA

6) Justin Wortman    C.O. 2009      DB         NR        -         5'11, 165, -        Cabot, AR

7) Prince Holmes      C.O. 2009      ATH        -       -          6'4", 200, -         Batesville, AR     





Signed LOI                                 Time                 

John Henderson                           1:15 pm
Anthony Leon                              12:20 pm
Kevin Lowery                               11:50 am
Shauntez Bruce                           11:50 am
Rudell Crim                                 11:35 am
DeQuinta Jones                           11:25 am
Rickey Hughey                            10:50 am
Anthony Oden                            10:40 am
Zhamal Thomas                          10:20 am
Ronnie Wingo                             10:05 am
Darius Winston                           9:55 am
Turrell Williams                           9:55 am
Austin Tate                               9:35 am
Colton Nash                              9:25 am
Austin Moss                              9:20 am
Terrell Williams                          8:55 am
Robert Thomas                          8:50 am
Neal Barlow                               8:50 am
Ryan Calendar                           8:40 am
Ross Rasner                              8:35 am
David "Flash" Gordon                  8:20 am
Colby Berna                              8:00 am
Alvin Bailey                               7:45 am
Jerry Mitchell                            7:40 am
Cobi Hamilton                           7:35 am
Brandon Mitchell                        7:30 am     
Travis Swanson                          7:25 am
Lance Ray                                 7:20 am
Knile Davis                               01/09     
Andru Stewart                           12/08
Broderick Green                         12/08

   


kimjongsqUeAl

Quote from: Tomhog™ on February 08, 2008, 11:59:57 am
Very few 2009 players have been evaluated.  These two obviously haven't since they don't even have profiles on some services.  Now that 2008 recruiting is over, the gurus can start the next class.

Thanks.  Sounds good to me
The Tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time, with the blood of patriots and tyrants.
- Thomas Jefferson

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge...
- God

Bubba's Bruisers

Quote from: Tomhog™ on February 07, 2008, 03:28:19 pm
This will be updated as recruits commit to the Hogs

     Recruit             Position     Rivals     Scout         Stats              Hometown   

1) Colby Berna           OG          NR          *        6'4", 275, 5.1        Fayetteville, AR

2) Darius Winston       CB          NR          *        6'0", 175, 4.38      Helena, AR

Thanks, Tomhog...+1  BTW, can you add the known scholarship offers for each recruit to the list?  For most of us lamens, that's the most telling attribute of a recruit...much more so than a recruiting services rank and stars.
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heal.

Genesis 3:15

Tomhog™

Quote from: Bubba's Bruisers on February 11, 2008, 09:42:27 am
Thanks, Tomhog...+1  BTW, can you add the known scholarship offers for each recruit to the list?  For most of us lamens, that's the most telling attribute of a recruit...much more so than a recruiting services rank and stars.

I am actually getting this list together.  Got a few gems I am wanting to add to the Forum.

wholehog92

Quote from: Tomhog™ on February 11, 2008, 10:03:55 am
I am actually getting this list together.  Got a few gems I am wanting to add to the Forum.

You do a great job Tomhog.  I am looking forward to your additions.
My personal list of trolls so that I can remember not to reply to them:  Pigs Been Fly, gohogsgo006, hanksampson, no3putts, HarryGoat, Oxbaker, Olmissbydamn, LocalHawg, Thatguy, Masterhog, servicesupport, Razorhawg09, Big Poppa Z,  $100 Handshake, Poloprince.

List of folks that reasonable conversation will not happen:  Iron Hog, Jman, hognot, Solomwi, hogfan1111x, pigzwillrise.

Favorite Posters:  WilsonHog, Tomhog, Muskogeehog, Razorfox, TammayTom, razorback3072, bennyl08.

PAHawg

Quote from: kim_jong_sqUeAl on February 08, 2008, 11:43:31 am
So they're not ranked high right now because they haven't been evaluated yet right??

I wouldn't be worried about these two from what I'm reading.  Supposedly, Winston has picked up a few SEC offers and Berna is getting praise from all angles.  The future is starting to look bright.

wholehog92

Quote from: Bubba's Bruisers on February 11, 2008, 09:42:27 am
Thanks, Tomhog...+1  BTW, can you add the known scholarship offers for each recruit to the list?  For most of us lamens, that's the most telling attribute of a recruit...much more so than a recruiting services rank and stars.

I would even like to see a list of the kids we have offered schollies to similar to the ones we've got committed.  Not trying to load you down Tomhog, just offering suggestions.  I have no idea how much effort it would be.
My personal list of trolls so that I can remember not to reply to them:  Pigs Been Fly, gohogsgo006, hanksampson, no3putts, HarryGoat, Oxbaker, Olmissbydamn, LocalHawg, Thatguy, Masterhog, servicesupport, Razorhawg09, Big Poppa Z,  $100 Handshake, Poloprince.

List of folks that reasonable conversation will not happen:  Iron Hog, Jman, hognot, Solomwi, hogfan1111x, pigzwillrise.

Favorite Posters:  WilsonHog, Tomhog, Muskogeehog, Razorfox, TammayTom, razorback3072, bennyl08.

booogaga

it would also be helpful or fun if you could put down kids we have given offers to and are interested in a different color under the ones who have committed.
GO HOGS!

want2be

Quote from: wholehog92 on February 22, 2008, 02:25:49 pm
I would even like to see a list of the kids we have offered schollies to similar to the ones we've got committed.  Not trying to load you down Tomhog, just offering suggestions.  I have no idea how much effort it would be.


Please, knowing the offers would be very interesting  to see in the end what the percentage to offers vs committs we get. Also would be good to see what parts of the country the coaches are working and who is recruiting each prospect.


 

COCHISE

Quote from: want2be on March 08, 2008, 03:17:53 pm

Please, knowing the offers would be very interesting  to see in the end what the percentage to offers vs committs we get. Also would be good to see what parts of the country the coaches are working and who is recruiting each prospect.
Updating Darius' offers would be a full-time job, not to mention take up a lot of space.  ;)


wholehog92

Quote from: Tomhog™ on April 03, 2008, 04:30:43 pm
Scholarship offers would clutter up the page too much.  I like the way it looks now.

No problem.  You do a great job.
My personal list of trolls so that I can remember not to reply to them:  Pigs Been Fly, gohogsgo006, hanksampson, no3putts, HarryGoat, Oxbaker, Olmissbydamn, LocalHawg, Thatguy, Masterhog, servicesupport, Razorhawg09, Big Poppa Z,  $100 Handshake, Poloprince.

List of folks that reasonable conversation will not happen:  Iron Hog, Jman, hognot, Solomwi, hogfan1111x, pigzwillrise.

Favorite Posters:  WilsonHog, Tomhog, Muskogeehog, Razorfox, TammayTom, razorback3072, bennyl08.

booogaga

rivals has winston as a 5 star now by the way
GO HOGS!

h0gfan6

Darius Winston is now a 5 star, as stated above.

Big Austin

Quote from: Tomhog™ on February 07, 2008, 04:01:55 pm
post reserved for next year's profiles and projections

Can you start a list of the players the hogs have offered that haven't commited?

iCalledThatHogBrotha!


Hogtropolis™

Quote from: abostian on April 24, 2008, 08:08:17 pm
Why no sticky anymore?
There were too many stickies, so you can now find a link to it in this sticky along with a lot of other useful links.

http://www.hogville.net/yabbse/index.php?topic=215015.0

Hogginitall

Quote from: Big Austin on April 23, 2008, 10:28:53 pm
Can you start a list of the players the hogs have offered that haven't commited?

Also, it would be really nice if you could include their favorite vegetable.  Thanks.

Hogtropolis™

April 24, 2008, 08:21:30 pm #22 Last Edit: April 25, 2008, 06:40:46 am by Hogtropolis™
Quote from: Big Austin on April 23, 2008, 10:28:53 pm
Can you start a list of the players the hogs have offered that haven't commited?
Check out this link.  You will find everything you need.

EDIT:  Forgot to put the link...

http://www.hogville.net/yabbse/index.php?topic=215015.0


 

hogman64

Quote from: Big Austin on April 23, 2008, 10:28:53 pm
Can you start a list of the players the hogs have offered that haven't commited?


I heard they are looking to offer the big  right tackle on Newports last State semi-final team but they are having a hard time locating him.....


tbhogfan

I haven't seen Williams play yet.  For those who have, what do you think Williams' star rating will be?
Go Hogs!

LSPRazorbac

Tomhog, can you make a thread of every highschool player in the nation with their offers and commitment status?  Then we would all be happy.   ;)

iCalledThatHogBrotha!

Any idea when Rivals & Scout are supposed to update their rankings again?


oldfart

Tomhog, i always enjoy reading your projections about each individual. would it be possible to do a "retrospect" on your projections for the last couple of years to see how they have actually done? 

Tomhog™

Quote from: oldfart on May 22, 2008, 12:32:43 pm
Tomhog, i always enjoy reading your projections about each individual. would it be possible to do a "retrospect" on your projections for the last couple of years to see how they have actually done? 

Last year was the first year I did projections.  I'll see if I can find it.  Search hasn't been working so it may take some time.

oldfart

thanks.. that would be interesting...

hs6

I guess you should update it now.

cbjagman

May 29, 2008, 10:44:51 am #34 Last Edit: May 29, 2008, 10:47:44 am by cbjagman
Quote from: Tomhog™ on February 07, 2008, 03:28:19 pm
This will be updated as recruits commit to the Hogs

     Recruit             Status         Position     Rivals        Scout         Stats                   Hometown   

1) Colby Berna          SOLID          OG                             6'4", 275, 5.1         Fayetteville, AR

2) Ryan Calendar       SOLID          DE         NR                          6'8", 220, 4.8         Caddo Mills, TX

2) Will Secord           SOLID          QB         NR                          6'2", 204 lb,4.66     Frisco, TX

3) Turell Williams       SOLID           RB         NR                     6'2", 215, 4.5        West Helena, AR

4) Darius Winston      SOLID          CB                  6'0", 175, 4.38      Helena, AR
Look for Bobby P. to continue adding to the *s in this class. My prediction is that "we ain't seen nothing yet"!!!!

COCHISE

What is the hold-up on Scouts evaluation of Berna, a player of his caliber should be ranked by now, unless Scout isn't as impressed by him as Rivals is.

PorkSoda

Quote from: 870 RZR on May 29, 2008, 01:32:46 pm
What is the hold-up on Scouts evaluation of Berna, a player of his caliber should be ranked by now, unless Scout isn't as impressed by him as Rivals is.
They maybe waiting for him to actually play his senior year before evaluating.
"I became insane, with long intervals of horrible sanity." ― Edgar Allan Poe
"If quantum mechanics hasn't profoundly shocked you, you haven't understood it yet. Everything we call real is made of things that cannot be regarded as real." – Niels Bohr
"A mind stretched to a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions" ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes
Quote from: PonderinHog on August 07, 2023, 06:37:15 pmYeah, we're all here, but we ain't all there.

COCHISE

Quote from: PorkSoda on May 30, 2008, 05:32:48 pm
They maybe waiting for him to actually play his senior year before evaluating.
They've already evaluated hundreds of other kids, I'm not sure why they would be waiting on Berna to play.

Idahog

Thanks for the update Tomhog!  I love this thread up here, provides a great deal of info, over the summer it will kill boredom time.
Quote from: Pork Twain on February 11, 2015, 07:11:54 am
Let me explain how this works...  If I have four really good meals in a row, I am thankful for that and I do not withhold my thanks for fear that the next meal might suck.


Cave City Joe

Rivals and Scout will start adding stars as schools start having camps.
"When you're part of a team, you stand up for your teammates. Your loyalty is to them. You protect them through good and bad, because they'd do the same for you."  <br />Yogi Berra

PorkSoda

Quote from: 870 RZR on May 30, 2008, 06:13:01 pm
They've already evaluated hundreds of other kids, I'm not sure why they would be waiting on Berna to play.
My guess would be because there are thousands of kids to evaluate.
"I became insane, with long intervals of horrible sanity." ― Edgar Allan Poe
"If quantum mechanics hasn't profoundly shocked you, you haven't understood it yet. Everything we call real is made of things that cannot be regarded as real." – Niels Bohr
"A mind stretched to a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions" ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes
Quote from: PonderinHog on August 07, 2023, 06:37:15 pmYeah, we're all here, but we ain't all there.

COCHISE

Quote from: PorkSoda on June 03, 2008, 06:32:30 pm
My guess would be because there are thousands of kids to evaluate.
But they usually get to the higher rated players fairly quickly, you would think they would have already evaluated who Rivals considers the #13 rated OG in the country.

hogs63

Quote from: 870 RZR on June 06, 2008, 03:49:39 pm
But they usually get to the higher rated players fairly quickly, you would think they would have already evaluated who Rivals considers the #13 rated OG in the country.

He was bumped up to a **** on scout yesterday as well as moved up to the #9 rated OG in the country

gohogsgo006

I miss Darius Winston :(   .....come on man, Stay Home.
Hogville- Where realism somehow equals pessimism

Hog Fan from Camden


Hog on the Hill

I like that Rasner said the attendance at the spring game is part of what convinced him.  I hope we can eventually fill the stadium like Nebraska and Alabama do.  We should all keep in mind that we, the fans, play an important role in recruiting.  The more passionate we are about the Razorbacks, the more enticing we will be to young kids looking to play in the spotlight.  Becoming a Razorback should be a big deal, not just for kids from Arkansas, but for those out of state as well.

Welcome, Mr. Rasner.

Pork Authority

Rivals and Scout would say they were all 5 stars, if they'd commited to Florida or LSU.

NWAhogfan


keithh1999

Quote from: Pork Authority on July 28, 2008, 11:20:14 pm
Rivals and Scout would say they were all 5 stars, if they'd commited to Florida or LSU.
And that is why I don't understand why some on here are completely hung up on *stars*. The question is do we trust Petrino or not?

I would love all 5 *stars* - but all that matters is can they play or not. Petrino must think they can play.
Pig Farmers are cool.