As Arkansas continues to push its rebuild forward, one position remains firmly under the microscope: wide receiver. The Razorbacks have been active in the transfer portal and are still very much in play for several high-upside pass catchers who could immediately elevate the offense. With questions at quarterback and a desire to open up the playbook, adding proven and explosive receivers is a priority.
Four names stand out as players Arkansas fans should keep a close eye on, each bringing a different blend of production, upside, and intrigue.
Ja‘Cory Thomas: Old Dominion
Thomas was one of the go-to targets in Old Dominion’s electric offense led by quarterback Colton Joseph, a unit that averaged 32 points per game. At 6’3”, Thomas combines size with big-play ability, finishing the season with 719 receiving yards on 41 catches and five touchdowns. That’s an eye-catching average of more than 17 yards per reception.
Get the ball in his hands and let him work, Thomas thrives in space and has the ability to flip the field in a hurry. His explosiveness paired with his frame makes him an enticing option for an Arkansas offense looking to stretch defenses vertically.
Malcolm Simmons: Auburn
Simmons’ situation at Auburn was more about circumstance than ability. Buried in a crowded and talented receiver room that included stars like Cam Coleman and Eric Singleton, Simmons never fully had the opportunity to showcase his full skill set on a consistent basis.
Even so, his production speaks volumes. During his time at Auburn, Simmons totaled 65 catches for 908 yards and five touchdowns. He remains one of the more sought-after receivers left in the portal because coaches know there’s another level to his game. In the right system with consistent targets, Simmons could emerge as a true difference-maker.
Iverson Hooks: UAB
Hooks has quickly become one of the hottest names on Arkansas’ radar. The UAB standout reportedly narrowed his decision down to Virginia and Arkansas after meeting with the Razorbacks on Thursday, signaling strong mutual interest.
A Second Team All-Conference selection, Hooks was one of the few bright spots on a struggling UAB squad. He racked up 1,038 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns, proving he can score in a hurry. His versatility and playmaking ability would be a welcome addition in Fayetteville, especially for an offense seeking instant impact.
Chris Marshall: Boise State
Perhaps the most intriguing name of the group is Chris Marshall. A former four-star recruit from JUCO Kilgore College originally before Boise State, Marshall entered college football with massive expectations. While his time at Boise State never fully unlocked his potential, context matters, the Broncos’ offense heavily prioritized the run game.
Still, Marshall flashed in his junior season, hauling in 30 catches for 574 yards and two touchdowns while averaging an impressive 19 yards per reception. The tools are undeniable, and in a more receiver-friendly scheme, Marshall could finally tap into that upside that once made him one of the most highly sought-after wideouts in the country.
A Receiver Room That Could Have Some Serious Upside
Landing even one or two of these receivers would give whoever lines up under center in Week 1 a plethora of weapons to work with. Arkansas has made it clear it’s open for business, welcoming players ready to embrace the Razorback culture and help push this rebuild into overdrive.
With more playmakers comes more opportunity, and you can bet guys like AJ Hill and KJ Jackson are seeing dollar signs when names like these guys linnking to their team. For Arkansas, the message is simple: the more weapons, the better.