The running back situation for Arkansas is a weird one. Without Ja'Quinden Jackson in 2025, star freshman Braylen Russell was set to take over as the bellcow RB. Then, reports that he'd entered the transfer portal dusted up on social media, starting a drawn-out sage, leaving fans feeling apathetic toward the young man.
However, Russell is now doing his best Eminem impression. He's officially withdrawn (rewithdrawn?) his name from the portal again and is returning to Arkansas. Not long after the reports broke, he issued a heartfelt explanation on X (formerly Twitter).
"The love I have for Coach Pitt and the University of Arkansas is beyond words. With everything happening in my life, I initially lost sight of what truly matters," Russell wrote. "But through conversations with Coach Pitt, I’ve regained perspective. Thank you so much, I love you! ."
The love I have for Coach Pitt and the University of Arkansas is beyond words. With everything happening in my life, I initially lost sight of what truly matters. But through conversations with Coach Pitt, I’ve regained perspective.Thank you so much,I love you! @CoachSamPittman
— Braylen Russell (@BraylenRussell) December 22, 2024
Arkansas lost another back in Rashod Dubinion last week, so Russell's return is welcomed, although cautiously. The Hogs also picked up a back out of the portal from New Mexico State. Mike Washington was a three-star in the portal but is another big back at 6-foot-2-inches and 215 pounds to go along with Russell's size.