Second Shot in SEC Reinvigorates Hogs' Transfer Joshua Braun

For potential starting Razorbacks guard, leaving Gainesville brings new life

Author:
Daniel Shi
Updated:
Aug 24, 2023 12:42 PM EDT
Original:
Aug 24, 2023

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The press is there. The fans are watching. The athletic director is smiling. On November 28, 2021, Florida announced Billy Napier as the 29th head coach in program history.

As fans debate the hire, the players' lives are turned upside down. The playbook changes and the mentor who recruited them is gone.

Offensive lineman Josh Braun with coach Sam Pittman — Josh Braun Twitter/@ElOso_78

For Florida transfer Josh Braun, the decision to come to Arkansas was difficult. The 6-6 redshirt junior started seven games in 2021 under coach Dan Mullen. The offensive line only allowed 14 sacks all year, but the next year under Napier, Braun only appeared in two games and needed a fresh start.

"Coaching transitions are hard, Braun said. "Ultimately it wasn't a good fit. I had to make the decision that was the best for me and my family, however painful that decision was."

As soon as Braun hit the portal, Braun sought out Arkansas. Since high school, he has wanted to play for coach Sam Pittman. Braun had previously committed to Georgia because of Pittman's tie with the Bulldogs from 2016-2019, where he served as offensive line coach.

With the rift with the staff at Florida in the rear-view mirror, Braun is ready to use his skills and 348-pound frame to once again play in the SEC.

"I’ve been a part of teams that have played in big games," Braun said. "I know the preparation and the attention to detail that goes into playing and ultimately winning those games."

Off the field, Braun has done plenty of hiking. He's at peace and ready to embrace his new home as the season nears closer and gets ready for a second chance.

"As the saying goes, 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do.' I grew up in Florida, Braun said. "Now that I'm in Arkansas, Arkansas is the Natural State. I'd be foolish not to take part in it."

A unique perspective on a veteran offensive line, who is one of a few transfers who knows about the pressure of facing off against elite-level competition gives Arkansas a path to increased success.