Arkansas has secured a major transfer portal addition, Memphis offensive guard Malachi Breland, confirmed by his agent Ali Barnes of DSG and reported by analyst Matt Zenitz on Twitter.
The 6-foot-5, 340-pound Breland immediately strengthens the Razorbacks’ offensive line room. He was among the higher-graded offensive guards in the American Athletic Conference this season, according to Pro Football Focus, and brings both experience and physicality to a unit that Arkansas is clearly prioritizing this offseason.
Arkansas has landed a commitment from Memphis offensive guard transfer Malachi Breland, his agent @AliBarnes_DSG tells @CBSSports.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 4, 2026
The 6-foot-5, 340-pound Breland (@malachibreland1) was among the higher graded offensive guards in the American this season per PFF. pic.twitter.com/WVe8F7CAgk
Malachi Breland: The Heart of a Resurgent Offensive Line
This is a significant get for the Razorbacks as they continue to load up in the trenches. Arkansas has been linked to several quality options across the offensive line, and Breland’s commitment feels like the beginning of what could be a strong portal cycle for head coach Ryan Silverfield and his staff. The emphasis is clear: build from the inside out. In a league as physical as the SEC, controlling the line of scrimmage often determines outcomes, and Arkansas appears committed to winning that battle.
Breland also represents familiarity and continuity. A former Silverfield player at Memphis, he should make a smooth transition to the offense in Fayetteville. That familiarity could extend beyond just the offensive line. Depending on which direction the staff goes at quarterback, Arkansas could target additional players with experience in the system along the interior offensive line, wide receiver, and running back.
Silverfield Will Look For Immediate Contribution
On the field, Breland looks like an immediate contender to start at guard next season. He made 12 starts at left guard in 2025 and played a key role in a Memphis rushing attack that averaged 183.23 yards per game, 31st nationally. His size and power stand out, and he fits the mold of a true interior mauler.
Breland will once again play under coaches who know him well, including Silverfield, offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey, and offensive line coach Jeff Myers. That continuity should allow the staff to maximize his strengths quickly, particularly in the run game and pass protection as he fortifies the inside part of the offensive line.
Ultimately, Arkansas’ approach is simple but effective: protect the quarterback and establish a physical identity up front. Whether the next Razorbacks quarterback is KJ Jackson or a portal addition, Breland helps form the foundation of a stronger, more reliable offensive line that fits the mold of a SEC lineman. Keep the quarterback upright, create lanes in the run game, and build a wall in the trenches, Breland is a big step toward that goal.