Nobody should be surprised Hogs’ KJ Jefferson gone

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This was expected by many Arkansas fans, but some had their hopes dashed with the word Saturday quarterback KJ Jefferson is officially in the portal.

BREAKING: Arkansas QB KJ Jefferson plans to enter the Transfer Portal, he tells @on3sports

The 6’3 245 QB threw for 7,923 Yards & 67 TDs, and added 1,876 yards & 21 TDs on the ground in his career at Arkansas https://t.co/KLh0y8KUR1 pic.twitter.com/ijWTcfHZc6

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 16, 2023

After starting games all five seasons he was with the Razorbacks, he set a couple of program records. That probably shouldn’t be very surprising, just based on longevity. The Hogs were 20-18 in games he started over that time.

Jefferson posted the official word on social media about the same time, so any glimmer of hope for a sixth-year return faded pretty quickly.

“It has been a dream to captain and QB1 at the University of Arkansas,” Jefferson stated. “Accomplishing those records, and being mentioned amongst the great QBs in Razorback history was an honor, but the memories and friendships I’ve made with my coaches and teammates along the way are what I’ll cherish the most.

“To the fans, I can’t express my gratitude enough for all of the support I’ve received from this great state. I hope you’ve enjoyed watching me grow as a man and a player as much as I’ve enjoyed representing this state and university. You accepted me as one of your own, and for that, I’m forever grateful and in your debt.

“With that being said, after much prayer and thought, I’ll be entering the transfer portal for my final year of eligibility.”

Where Jefferson might land is anybody’s guess. New offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino has Jacolby Criswell and Malachi Singleton on the roster (at least this minute). Now they have Green, who is the projected starter, at least in everyone’s mind right now.

Jefferson was a Chad Morris recruit in 2019 who started games all five years he was with the Razorbacks, including as a true freshman on the road against LSU. He set some program records, which isn’t surprising for someone that played that long. He was 20-18 in games he started with the Hogs.