FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas is expected to lean on experienced linebackers and a versatile secondary as the Razorbacks get closer to starting new season.
Defensive coordinator Travis Williams is hoping it’s enough turn around a group that has been struggling at times the last few years.
“In the defensive backs room, we have a lot of guys with one year left of eligibility, so we have a lot of guys that have played a lot of football,” Williams said. “We have guys with mustaches, so we don’t have a lot of young guys. That experience means a lot when you get up under the lights and get to play big-time football.”
Redshirt seniors Stephen Dix Jr. and Xavian Sorey Jr. anchor the linebacker unit. Sorey, who led Arkansas with 99 tackles and two sacks last season, has been slowed by a hamstring injury in camp, opening the door for Bradley Shaw to see more snaps. Williams called Dix, Sorey and Shaw “starters” and said transfers Andrew Harris and Trent Whalen have added depth.
Whalen, a transfer from Southern Utah, has impressed the coaching staff with his readiness and special teams contributions. Wyatt Simmons and freshman Tavion Wallace, a top recruit, round out a group that Williams described as “deep and competitive.”
The secondary, which features mostly upperclassmen, gives Williams options in coverage packages. Several players, including Jordan Young, Miguel Mitchell, Caleb Wooden and Larry Worth, have taken snaps at multiple positions. Williams said the group could rotate frequently, depending on matchups and health.
“We definitely have more depth to do more there,” Williams said. “As long as we can keep everybody healthy, it will be a good thing.”
Arkansas is experimenting with different alignments, including 3-2-6 and 3-3-5 looks, to maximize its secondary’s flexibility. No permanent starters have been named, but Williams said the staff considers anyone who plays with the first group a starter.
The defensive line presents the greatest concern for Arkansas. The Razorbacks are likely to be without Abilene Christian transfer David Oke for the opener, and the interior is especially thin behind Cam Ball. Danny Saili and Ian Geffrard are expected to contribute, but injuries could force true freshmen into the rotation early.
Williams emphasized the need for young players to mature quickly. “If you’re good enough, you’re old enough,” he said. “We may need some young guys to step up.”
Last season, Arkansas allowed 247 passing yards per game, worst in the Southeastern Conference. Williams said improving communication and execution is critical for a turnaround. “The margin for error is small. It’s just talking and saying, ‘Hey, I’ve got this guy. You’ve got him.’”
The Razorbacks open the season Aug. 30 against Alabama A&M at Razorback Stadium. Williams said the opener will reveal whether the defense’s experience and flexibility can offset its lack of depth up front.
“We’re definitely going to lean on that experience,” Williams said. “That matters when you get up under the lights and play big-time football.”
Arkansas faces a challenging schedule and must rely on its veteran leadership at linebacker and in the secondary. The performance and depth of the defensive line could determine how far the Razorbacks’ defense can carry them in 2025.
The opener against Alabama A&M will kick off at 3:15 p.m. on SEC Network. Fans will also be able to listen ESPN Arkansas 99.5 in Fayetteville, 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home.
