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Razorbacks Expected to Host All-American Transfer Tailback

Hogs could utilize Texas State's all-purpose weapon in SEC next season if weekend visit at Arkansas goes well
Jacob Davis|
Texas State Bobcats running back Ismail Mahdi (21) goes in for the 10-yard touchdown catch Baylor Bears during the first half at McLane Stadium.
Texas State Bobcats running back Ismail Mahdi (21) goes in for the 10-yard touchdown catch Baylor Bears during the first half at McLane Stadium. | Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

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Arkansas RazorbacksTexas State Bobcats

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Arkansas Razorbacks are set to host Texas State running back Ismail Mahdi this weekend for a visit, he tells Hogs on SI.

The 5-foot-9, 185 pound running back has shown himself to be very productive over the previous two seasons not only as a feature back, but pass catcher out of the backfield and major asset in the kick return game. Over the previous two seasons he has recorded 3,552 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns for the Bobcats.

Mahdi led the nation in all-purpose yards in 2023 with 2,169 and has twice been named to the All-Sun Belt First Team and named First Team All-American following the 2023 season. He will have one year of eligibility remaining.

Senior running back Ja'Quinden Jackson announced his decision to forego is final year of eligibility with the Razorbacks and pursue an opportunity in the NFL. Jackson was a key cog in Arkansas' rushing attack as he scored 15 touchdowns on the season and led the team with 790 yards on the ground.

Along with Mahdi, Arkansas is expected to host several transfers for visits this weekend including tight ends Zach Atkins, Jaden Platt, offensive lineman Jac'Qawn McRoy, wide receiver Raylen Sharpe and offensive tackle Alvin Ebosele.

Expected 2025 Running Backs Depth Chart

Rashod Dubinion, Senior
Rodney Hill, Redshirt Junior
Tyrell Reed, Junior
Braylen Russell, Sophomore
JuJu Pope, Redshirt Freshman

HOGS FEED:

• Breaking: Hogs lose another defensive starter to transfer portal

• Portal roundup: day two recap of Hogs' transfers offers, scheduled visits

• REACTION: Hogs put it all together against No. 14 Michigan

• Fans know exactly which athletics director they want

• Hogs' wild day winning game, Russell's flips | Locked on Razorbacks

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Jacob Davis
JACOB DAVIS

Jacob Davis is a reporter for Arkansas Razorbacks on SI, with a decade of experience covering high school and transfer portal recruiting. He has previously worked at Rivals, Saturday Down South, SB Nation and hosted podcasts with Bleav Podcast Network where his show was a finalist for podcast of the year. Native of El Dorado, he currently resides in Central Arkansas with his wife and daughter.

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