Decision Hangs Over 'Super Seniors' Heading into Mizzou Matchup

Extra covid year presents conundrum to key players on both sides of the ball this year

Author:
Daniel Shi
Updated:
Nov 22, 2023 12:33 PM EST
Original:
Nov 22, 2023

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — No one ever thought a sixth-year could be in the cards, but given the NCAA forgiving the 2020 season because of covid, now here it is. It's also created massive questions about players returning as potential "super seniors" and dictates just how aggressive coach Sam Pittman will have to be in the transfer portal.

Two of those players, Hudson Clark and KJ Jefferson, are holding their cards close to their chests as to whether this coming week will be their final time taking the field in a Razorback uniform.

"I’m just focused on Missouri," Jefferson said. "After that, I’ll make my decision. But right now I’m just focused on Missouri."

That doesn't mean fun and games haven't started as the Razorbacks prepare for the final game of the season with bowl eligibility already out the window. Clark, who hasn't come to a decision yet, either, is already hearing it from Pittman.

"He’s been joking around trying to offer me Gatorade and water," Clark said. "He had a cool jacket on the other day and he said he’d give me one if I came back and just joking around."

Gatorade aside, there are a few other key players with decisions to make. That's assuming, of course, the Razorbacks want them to come back for that extra year. It's a mutual decision.

Offensive lineman Beaux Limmer and Brady Latham could come back. Despite the offensive line struggles this year. Losing one or both would require serious patch-up work in the transfer portal to form a passable offensive line given this year's lack of depth.

The Hogs' leading receivers, Andrew Armstrong and Isaac TeSlaa both have eligibility remaining. Armstrong currently ranks 10th in the SEC in receiving yards with 657 and leads the team with more than 300 yards more than TeSlaa.

On the other side of the ball, the most prominent player with a decision to make is cornerback Dwight McGlothern, who emerged as a viable starter in the past few games after being second-string earlier in the season.

Other key names to keep an eye on include Taurean Carter, Anthony "Tank" Booker, and Kelvie Rose. All three defensive players could play a bigger role next season should they choose to return.

For now, the Hogs are focused on making sure the disappointing season ends on a good note for the seniors who have no eligibility left.

"I think just sending whoever’s leaving off right," Clark said. "I think that’s a big deal for this team."

Arkansas concludes its 2023 season against Mizzou 3 p.m. Nov. 24 against Missouri. The game will be broadcast on CBS and FuboTV .