Arkansas Sprint Football Preview: Offensive Line

Spring football is finally underway for the Hogs, and all eyes are on the newcomers and position changes announced by Sam Pittman earlier in the week. The quarterback battle and development of the running backs are critical points of emphasis for the offense this spring. Likewise, building depth across the defensive line and at linebacker will likely receive much attention from Barry Odom as the spring progresses. But for the Hogs to continue an upward trend in 2021, the big men up front must progress during Pittman’s first spring in Fayetteville. Luckily, the Hogs have the right man at the helm to develop offensive linemen that will win the battle in the trenches.

The Arkansas offensive line will return five starters for the 2021 season. Anchored by seniors Ty Clary and Myron Cunningham, the line will be the most experienced group on this year’s squad. Brady Latham, Ricky Stromberg, and Dalton Wagner will also return to their respective roles. However, the unit recently lost Noah Gatlin to retirement after battling injury during his first two years at Arkansas.

The offensive line will welcome a few newcomers this spring. Ty’kieast Crawford is perhaps the most exciting offensive line newcomer on the Hill this spring. Crawford was initially committed to Arkansas coming out of high school in 2019 before de-committing and choosing the Charlotte 49ers. In December, Crawford entered the transfer portal and selected the Razorbacks over LSU, Alabama, Georgia, and a handful of other programs. The 6’5, 335 lb. transfer can make an immediate impact for the Razorbacks this fall.

The experience of the returners accompanied by the skill of newcomers should be encouraging for Razorback fans. Look for the offensive front to vastly improve during year two of the Sam Pittman era.