It's the same sad story we've heard over the last few years. In-state prospects taking their talents to other programs year in and year out. The latest to do it is the 2026 quarterback recruit—Kane Archer. Instead of choosing the Hogs, Archer is heading to UCF.
Arkansas target Kane Archer chooses UCF
Since the eighth grade, the Razorbacks have been hot on his tail. Arkansas fans have heard endless stories of the Greenwood product's potential. And for some, just the Greenwood name is enough to perk up their ears. With massive Razorbacks stars like Tyler Wilson, Drew Morgan, and Grant Morgan hailing from the River Valley city, you can't blame them.
But to be fair, Archer's defection to the Sunshine State wasn't incredibly shocking. His brother Cash isn't coming to Fayetteville either, picking the Bears of Central Arkansas.
However, the choice may not have been the highly-touted QBs to make. According to 247Sports Composite rankings, Archer is a .87 rated 3-star. He's the No. 615 player in the nation, the No. 34 QB prospect, and the No. 7 player in Arkansas. His final four teams would also indicate that he's recruitment dropped off, with SMU and Appalachian State also losing out to UCF.
BREAKING: Class of 2026 QB Kane Archer has Committed to UCF, he tells me for @on3recruits
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 29, 2025
The 6’1 210 QB from Greenwood, AR chose the Knights over SMU, Arkansas, & App State
“I’m home! Go Knights! ⚔️🌴”https://t.co/jP0lZ4c4Zv pic.twitter.com/xniktXYUjA
However, Archer isn't the only star QB the Razorbacks have missed lately. Little Rock Christian 4-star prospect Walker White also spurred Arkansas, choosing the Auburn Tigers.
Still, the Hog's 2026 recruiting class is off to a hot start. With 13 commits, Arkansas is ranked No. 16 in the nation. However, with many more commitments than other teams, the class could easily drop off without continued success.