The Arkansas Razorbacks are the program with the most momentum in the SEC coming into 2022. In 2021, Arkansas recorded the most single-season wins in program history since 2011. Additionally, Sam Pittman utilized the transfer portal successfully this offseason, getting talented players to come to Fayetteville. Also, many of the underclassmen have more experience under their belt and are ready to improve their play. This article will look at the likely candidates to break out for the Arkansas in the 2022 season.
WR Jaden Haselwood:
With wide receiver Treylon Burks now headed to the NFL, Arkansas has an open spot for a No. 1 receiver. Haselwood, who transferred from Oklahoma, has all the talent needed to fill this void. Haselwood possesses a big frame at 6-3, 202 pounds, which allows him to get many yards after the catch. He also has elite ball skills and can high point tough passes that other receivers can’t get. After having three years of college experience under his belt and now being the clear cut No. 1 option in the offense, expect Haselwood to bump his numbers up greatly.
RB Raheim Sanders:
Recruited to play slot receiver, head coach Sam Pittman moved Sanders to running back before his freshman season in 2021. This proved to be the right call, as Sanders shined in his first year campaign. On 114 attempts, Sanders rushed for 578 yards. His best game of the year came against Ole Miss, where he rushed the ball 17 times for 139 yards.
Sanders stands at 6-2, 221 pounds, which makes him hard for defenders to bring down. Appropriately nicknamed “Rocket”, due to his combination of power and speed, Sanders also flashed his ability in the passing game at times. Look for Sanders to get more touches this year, whether it’s on the ground or through the air.
LB Drew Sanders:
With linebacker Grant Morgan leaving the hill, the Razorbacks had a huge void in the center of their defense. Morgan, who was 6th in the SEC in tackles, was the leader of the defense his last two years with the hogs. However, Arkansas picked someone up from the transfer portal who could easily surpass Morgan’s production. Junior Drew Sanders is a transfer from Alabama, where he started three games in 2021 before being replaced by future first round pick Dallas Turner. Sanders will be moved to inside linebacker, where he’ll be asked to help the hogs run defense. Moreover, Arkansas has made numerous improvements to their secondary from the transfer portal. With an upgraded DB unit, Sanders should also get more opportunities to flash his athleticism and rush the quarterback.
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