FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas — Despite a 4-8 finish to the 2023 regular season, the Razorbacks continue to attract top-tier transfers this offseason. In his fifth season on The Hill, Coach Sam Pittman understands the importance of his job.
While the defense returns a lot of production, the offensive line is in desperate need of assistance. Last season, the unit was young, with Andrew Chamblee and Patrick Kutas serving as the bookends. Transfer to Michigan State Keyshawn Blackstock should be able to assist immediately at one of the guard positions. The Hogs, on the other hand, require even more men up front to make a difference and create depth.
LT. FERNANDO CARMONA, JR.
STATE OF SAN JOSE
Speaking of more offensive line help, the former Spartan started 24 games and was named to the Mountain West Honorable Mention team in 2023.
According to The Mercury News, the Las Vegas native was the only offensive lineman on his team to receive a NIL contract. California Wet Burrito, a Mexican restaurant two blocks south of campus, struck a deal with Carmona that included naming a burrito after him and splitting a percentage of profits whenever a customer purchased the item. Ole Miss, Michigan State, Arkansas, South Carolina, Texas Tech, and Auburn are among the schools that have expressed interest in him. Carmona will travel to Arkansas in the coming days and to Auburn this weekend.
OT JAEKWON BOULDIN
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF THE MISSISSIPPI GULF
The 6-foot-7, 350-pound tackle has the physique of a dominant blindside lineman. Bouldin has received offers from Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Auburn, and Arkansas, but it appears that the Razorbacks and Bulldogs will compete for his commitment. There is no hiding the Hogs’ offensive line struggles this season, as they allowed an SEC-high 47 sacks during the regular season. For new coach Eric Mateos and Pittman, retooling the offensive line is critical.
DB DONEIKO SLAUGHTER
TENNESSEE
Volunteer fans were saddened when Slaughter announced his entry into the transfer portal. During his four seasons in Knoxville, he recorded 87 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, an interception, and seven passes defensed.
THOMAS KEATON, LB
MISSISSIPPI COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN THE NORTHWEST
Thomas was named first team all-conference after leading the Tigers with 107 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two interceptions.
The 6-1, 230-pounder will graduate in December, making him eligible to transfer after the semester. Despite his commitment to Baylor, Thomas told allHogs that Arkansas is still in contact with him and that he is considering a visit or two.
