Arkansas Football Boosts Defense Through Spring Transfer Portal
Fayetteville, AR – Arkansas football made a significant splash in the spring transfer portal this weekend, signing four new players to enhance its 2025 roster. The Razorbacks welcomed defensive back Julian Neal from Stanford, safety Shakur Smalls from Maine, pass-rusher Phillip Lee from Troy, and linebacker Trent Whalen from Kent State, all aimed at strengthening the team’s defensive unit.
Head Coach Sam Pittman had previously indicated the Razorbacks were looking to add five transfers, focusing on defense. With the recent acquisitions filling gaps in the secondary and linebacker corps, the only remaining area of concern appears to be the defensive tackle position. While Arkansas boasts capable interior linemen like Cam Ball, Danny Saili, Ian Geffrard, and David Oke, the addition of another experienced player would bolster the team’s frontline in the competitive SEC.
One potential candidate for this need is Marcus Burris Jr., a 6-foot-5, 286-pound defensive tackle from Indiana with roots in Texarkana, Texas. Burris, who began his collegiate career at Texas A&M, has had a solid tenure at Indiana, notching 34 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks over two seasons.
On the offensive front, Pittman stated that the team does not plan to pursue players unless a significant contributor departs. While the current roster stands at 90 scholarships—five over the SEC’s limit—any new additions would require players to exit the program. As the spring progresses, the Razorbacks anticipate more movement in and out of the portal.
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