FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Former Arkansas running back Darren McFadden will receive a unique honor this season as the Razorbacks announce plans to commemorate his No. 5 jersey with a special patch, marking a first for the university’s football program.
The tribute will debut when Arkansas opens its season Aug. 30 against Alabama A&M.
A patch featuring McFadden’s initials and silhouette will be added to the front of the No. 5 jerseys, which this year will be worn by senior defensive tackle Cam Ball and freshman wide receiver Ja’Kayden Ferguson.
McFadden starred for Arkansas from 2005 to 2007, amassing 4,590 rushing yards and scoring 41 touchdowns in just three seasons. He twice won the Doak Walker Award and was the Heisman Trophy runner-up in consecutive years before being selected fourth overall in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders.
“It’s an honor to know that future generations will wear No. 5 and be reminded of what it means to be a Razorback,” McFadden said.
The honoring of McFadden’s number is distinct from a full jersey retirement. Only two other football jerseys have been retired by Arkansas — Clyde Scott’s No. 12 and Brandon Burlsworth’s No. 77.
McFadden’s number will remain available for current and future players, now distinguished by the commemorative patch.
Hunter Yurachek, Arkansas’ athletics director, said the patch will serve as a lasting reminder of McFadden’s contributions.
“Our fans’ memories of watching No. 5 race down the sideline, run through an SEC secondary or him ‘bringing dat wood’ will never be forgotten,” Yurachek said. “His legacy lives on at the University of Arkansas and this patch will serve as proof of that legacy every time we take the field.”
A permanent stadium display for McFadden’s No. 5 will be unveiled Oct. 18 during Arkansas’ game against Texas A&M at Razorback Stadium. His recognition will join the program’s most celebrated figures and highlight his accomplishments for future fans.
McFadden’s time at Arkansas included several milestones. He set the school’s single-season and career rushing records, led the Razorbacks to an SEC West title, and was a consensus All-American. He also contributed as a passer and return specialist, earning praise for his versatility and athleticism.
Opposing coaches frequently cited McFadden’s game-changing ability. But Hogs coach Houston Nutt saw it first-hand.
“McFadden is explosive, and he knows how to change the game as a whole,” Nutt said said following a 2007 game where he ran wild against South Carolina.
The university’s decision to honor rather than retire No. 5 keeps McFadden’s legacy active, allowing new players to represent the standard he established. The tribute is part of a broader effort to connect Razorback football’s rich history with its present.
McFadden’s career at Arkansas, highlighted by memorable performances such as the “Wild Hog” formation, left a lasting impact on the program.
Alongside Felix Jones, he formed one of college football’s most dynamic backfields, helping Arkansas reach the national spotlight.
