Arkansas has officially lost one of its most intriguing defensive backs, as former four-star recruit Jaheim Singletary has entered the transfer portal and committed to Iowa State. The move was first reported by college football analyst Hayes Fawcett and marks the latest chapter in a winding college career for one of the most highly touted cornerbacks from the 2023 recruiting class.
Jaheim Singletary On the Move Again
Singletary originally burst onto the national scene as an elite high school prospect, earning four-star status and signing with the Georgia Bulldogs as one of the top cornerbacks in the country. With his rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism, expectations were sky-high from the start.
After leaving Georgia, Singletary transferred to Arkansas, where he arrived as a top talent still viewed as a high-upside defensive back. However, his national ranking has gradually slipped, and he now enters the transfer portal as a three-star player in the latest Rivals Industry Rankings. While the drop reflects limited on-field production rather than raw ability, it underscores how unmet expectations have followed him over the last two seasons.
Now, Singletary heads to Iowa State, a program undergoing significant roster turnover and transition with Matt Campbell leaving to go to Penn State. That environment could work in his favor, offering a clearer path to early playing time and even a potential starting role in the Cyclones’ secondary. With a new defensive staff and plenty of snaps available, the opportunity for a fresh start is very real.
Iowa State Landed a High-Upside Prospect
Despite bouncing between programs, the tools that once made Singletary elite remain evident. At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for a true No. 1 cornerback, along with the length and athleticism teams covet on the perimeter. The missing piece has been consistent production. Through his college career so far, Singletary has recorded just one interception, and taking a step forward statistically will be critical if he hopes to reestablish his reputation.
Still, the upside is undeniable. Singletary has two years of eligibility remaining, and Iowa State represents what could be his final, and best, opportunity to put everything together. With development, confidence, and steady reps, he has a chance to become the impact defender many believed he would be coming out of high school.
For Arkansas, the loss stings given the original expectations tied to Singletary’s recruitment. For Iowa State, it’s a calculated gamble on elite traits and untapped potential, one that could pay off in a big way if Singletary finally delivers on the promise that once made him a high level recruit. The time is now.