FAYETTEVILLE — Ryan Silverfield's first spring with Arkansas football is over, and the new head coach left the preseason window encouraged about his team's development.
The Razorbacks are hunting a bounce-back season after going 2-10 in 2025. A new roster and coaching staff laid their foundation down during the past six weeks.
But questions remain heading into the fall, with two quarterbacks still dueling to win the starting job for the season's first game against North Alabama in early September.
Here are three concerns we still have for the Hogs after spring practices.
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs after a reception during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) throws a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) tries to escape the grasp of defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) takes the handoff from quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over to the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Ty Lockwood (85) sit tackled by defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) and defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) makes a reception and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) jumps over defensive back Landon Phipps (32) and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) watches his extra point kick from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Charlie Collins (9) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) looks to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Carey Clayton (55) points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Khmori House (6) celebrates after breaking up a pass play during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Dequane Prevo (80) is tackled by defensive back Christian Harrison (1) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) looks to throw the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Miguel Mitchell (24) breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Donovan Faupel (8) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) intercepts a pass and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) kicks extra point from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) gets ready to pass the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) is tackled by linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Ian Williams (23) tackles running back Jasper Parker (21) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) attempts a field goal from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over his players during warmups before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) blocks defensive lineman Steven Soles Jr. (35) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws a pass over linebacker Bradley Shaw (7) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Members of the Arkansas Razorbacks band “calls the hogs” before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Max Gilbert (30) kicks an extra point from holder Gavin Rush (37) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) and offensive lineman Aaron Smith (65) block as defensive lineman Trajen Odom (28) rushes during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) hands off to running back TJ Hodges (22) as running back Sutton Smith (5) crosses in front to block during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Christian Harrison (1) kneels before the start of the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Antonio Jordan (19) is tackled by defensive back Jahiem Johnson (20) and defensive back Ian Williams (23) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) rolls out to pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman David Oke (92) gets ready to play in the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Xadavien Sims (88) drops back into coverage during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks take the field for the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images1 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images1 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images2 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs after a reception during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images3 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images4 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images5 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) throws a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images6 / 54Arkansas football projected 2026 depth chart after spring practicesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) tries to escape the grasp of defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images7 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) takes the handoff from quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images8 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over to the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images9 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Ty Lockwood (85) sit tackled by defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) and defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images10 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) makes a reception and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images11 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) jumps over defensive back Landon Phipps (32) and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images12 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) watches his extra point kick from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images13 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Charlie Collins (9) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images14 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) looks to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images15 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Carey Clayton (55) points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images16 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images17 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images18 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images19 / 54What we saw from Arkansas football quarterbacks at spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images20 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images21 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Khmori House (6) celebrates after breaking up a pass play during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images22 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Dequane Prevo (80) is tackled by defensive back Christian Harrison (1) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images23 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) looks to throw the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images24 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images25 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Miguel Mitchell (24) breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Donovan Faupel (8) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images26 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) intercepts a pass and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images27 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) kicks extra point from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images28 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) gets ready to pass the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images29 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images30 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) is tackled by linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images31 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images32 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Ian Williams (23) tackles running back Jasper Parker (21) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images33 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) attempts a field goal from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images34 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images35 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images36 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over his players during warmups before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images37 / 543 concerns we still have for Arkansas football after spring practicesApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) blocks defensive lineman Steven Soles Jr. (35) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images38 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images39 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws a pass over linebacker Bradley Shaw (7) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images40 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Members of the Arkansas Razorbacks band “calls the hogs” before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images41 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Max Gilbert (30) kicks an extra point from holder Gavin Rush (37) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images42 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) and offensive lineman Aaron Smith (65) block as defensive lineman Trajen Odom (28) rushes during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images43 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) hands off to running back TJ Hodges (22) as running back Sutton Smith (5) crosses in front to block during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images44 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Christian Harrison (1) kneels before the start of the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images45 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Antonio Jordan (19) is tackled by defensive back Jahiem Johnson (20) and defensive back Ian Williams (23) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images46 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) rolls out to pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images47 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images48 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images49 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman David Oke (92) gets ready to play in the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images50 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Xadavien Sims (88) drops back into coverage during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images51 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images52 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images53 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks take the field for the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images54 / 54Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring gameApr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn ImagesPass protection along Arkansas football offensive lineThe Razorbacks made improvements in this category during the 2025 season, but they still ranked 106th in the country with 2.4 sacks allowed per game. The Hogs lost three starters from last year's offensive line, including left tackle Corey Robinson II (eligibility) and E'Marion Harris (transfer).
From our vantage point, the defensive line outshined the offensive line during spring practices. Quincy Rhodes was a wrecking-ball and could be a first-round pick in next year's draft, but Steven Soles Jr., Charlie Collins and Jamonta Waller all had bright days getting after the quarterbacks. The defense had five sacks in the Red-White game.
"I think the pass rush showed up," Silverfield said. "Conversely, it's just, ‘OK, hey, can you find eight to nine O-linemen that can play?’
"Listen, we love all the (offensive) linemen if we end up with 20 on the roster, but I think you sit there and say, ‘Do we have eight that we feel like can start?’ And that's where we're going to have to continue to determine that."
The secondary defended the sidelines brilliantly Saturday. Outside cornerbacks like Jahiem Johnson and La'khi Roland had solid coverage on go routes, which were a glaring weakness for the 2025 Razorbacks.
However, both quarterbacks had success this spring targeting the middle of the field. KJ Jackson's 65-yard touchdown to CJ Brown came on a deep crossing route, and that's where most of the offense's success came during the Red-White game. Antonio Jordan had a pair of 17-yard catches on crossing routes.
It's hard to know what position was culpable for the gaps in coverage. Safeties and linebackers are most likely responsible for those zones, but it will take a team-effort to make sure this is not a weakness during the fall.
On a positive note, a good bulk of the defense's interceptions this spring came from safeties jumping routes in the middle of the field. Nsognbeh Ginyui did just that during the Red-White Game.
It feels like the Razorbacks have a deeper group of wide receivers compared to recent years, but is there a big-play threat who can take the top off of opposing defenses? Is there a running back who can turn holes at the line-of-scrimmage into 30-yard runs like Mike Washington Jr. did last season?
Time will tell. We already mentioned Brown's touchdown, and that was an encouraging sign, but Chris Marshall was supposed to be a big-play receiver and he finished the spring game with just as many drops as receptions.
The longest run on Saturday was a 16-yard carry by Jasper Parker. It looks like this year's offensive identity with short passes, screens and RPOs, but play-caller Tim Cramsey is confident there will be an element of explosiveness
"I think we have some guys that can threaten downfield for us," Cramsey said. "Make the defense cover vertically as much as horizontally.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him @jacksonfuller16 on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: 3 Arkansas football concerns after spring practices