The Arkansas Razorbacks are stepping into a new era with head coach Ryan Silverfield at the helm. The 2026 transfer portal is shaping up to be a game-changer for the roster.
The portal opened on January 2 and will close on January 16. During this window, the Razorbacks are making moves to reshape their team.
This guide breaks down the key additions and departures for Arkansas football. Let’s take a closer look at how the Razorbacks are using the transfer portal to build a stronger squad for next season.
Key Additions to the Arkansas Roster
Ryan Silverfield has already landed eight commitments from the portal. Three of those are former Memphis Tigers, reuniting with their coach in Fayetteville.
These new faces could shake things up on both offense and defense. There’s a buzz about the immediate impact they might have.
Defensive Reinforcements
Arkansas has loaded up on defense with some big-name transfers:
- Johnson: Ranked seventh among transfer cornerbacks by 247Sports, Johnson put up 42 tackles, four interceptions, and nine pass deflections in 2025. He’s Arkansas’ top-rated commit in this portal cycle.
- Osborne: A four-star recruit with experience at Alabama and the Cavaliers, Osborne will compete for snaps on the interior defensive line. In 2025, he had 18 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a sack.
- Smith: Smith, rated No. 51 among transfer linebackers, finished last season with 49 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles as a sophomore.
- Harrison: Harrison started at Tennessee, spent last season with the Bearcats, and logged 66 tackles, seven pass deflections, and an interception. His old position coach, Eddie Hicks, now leads the Razorbacks’ cornerbacks.
Offensive Firepower
The Razorbacks have also added some intriguing offensive players:
- Parker: A former four-star recruit, Parker ran for 93 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries as a freshman with the Wolverines. He’ll battle Braylen Russell and Memphis transfer Sutton Smith for running back reps.
- Hill: One of Memphis’ highest-ranked recruits ever, Hill enters as a redshirt freshman with four years of eligibility. He completed 19 of 32 passes for 223 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in limited action last fall.
- Hawkins: Hawkins followed Silverfield from Memphis, where he caught 38 passes for 623 yards and two touchdowns in 2025. He’ll help replace graduating receivers O’Mega Blake and Raylen Sharpe.
- Gilbert: Tennessee’s starting kicker the past two seasons, Gilbert went 34 for 45, with five makes from beyond 50 yards. His arrival prompted Scott Starzyk to hit the portal.
Notable Departures
While Arkansas has gained some talent, several players have left via the transfer portal. The staff will need to fill those gaps to keep the team competitive.
Defensive Losses
Several key defensive players are on the move:
- Harris: Harris started 24 games over the last two seasons and played right tackle in 2025. His exit leaves a hole on the offensive line that needs attention.
- Mitchell: Mitchell, who came from Florida before 2024, played in 17 games with five starts in two years. Last season, he posted 52 tackles, a tackle for loss, a sack, and an interception.
- Boone: Boone transferred in from Florida, made three starts, and rotated regularly on the defensive line. He finished with 28 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a sack in his only season with Arkansas.
Offensive Departures
The offense is losing a few contributors as well:
- Starzyk: After Arkansas added two kickers from the portal, Starzyk decided to transfer. He went 14 for 18 as a freshman in 2025 and was highly rated coming out of high school.
- Jean: Jean caught one pass for 21 yards and played in five games during his single season as a redshirt junior.
- Hill: Hill mostly served as the third-string running back over two years, finishing with 36 carries for 220 yards and two touchdowns as a Razorback.
Future Outlook
The Razorbacks are searching for more talent to fill key spots. On defense, they need help at tackle, linebacker, and safety. Only one starter returns at those positions, and last year’s group wasn’t strong enough.
Silverfield’s got a blank slate outside of defensive end Quincy Rhodes. That could be a blessing or a headache, depending on how you look at it.
Offensive Needs
The offense needs fresh faces at the skill positions. Arkansas’ top rusher and three leading receivers from 2025 are gone.
Silverfield has to find an SEC-level running back to pair with Braylen Russell. Wide receiver is also a question mark, though CJ Brown, Courtney Crutchfield, and Antonio Jordan could return.
Strengthening the Offensive Line
The offensive line has a decent foundation with Kobe Branham and Caden Kitler coming back. Arkansas needs a starting left tackle to replace Corey Robinson, plus some depth to keep the line solid.
Conclusion
The transfer portal keeps changing the landscape of college football. Arkansas Razorbacks aren’t sitting back—they’re jumping in, trying to build a stronger team under Ryan Silverfield.
They’ve made some smart additions and filled key gaps. Maybe this is the year they really make a leap.
If you’re curious about all the latest moves and who’s coming or going, check out the Arkansas football transfer portal tracker.
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