Memphis true freshman quarterback Antwann “AJ” Hill is expected to enter the transfer portal following one season with the Tigers, according to On3. Hill’s decision comes shortly after Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield was hired away by Arkansas, creating an immediate and intriguing connection between the former Tigers quarterback and the Razorbacks.
Hill appeared in two games during the 2025 season and preserved his redshirt, giving him four full years of eligibility moving forward. His most significant action came on October 18 in a 31–24 loss to UAB. After starting quarterback Brendon Lewis exited the game with an injury, Hill was thrust into action and played roughly two quarters. In that stretch, he completed 13 of 25 passes for 176 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. While the stat line was modest, it offered a glimpse into why Hill was regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects to ever sign with Memphis.
Clear Connection Between AJ Hill and Arkansas Head Coach Ryan Silverfield
The timing of Hill’s transfer is notable. Silverfield, who personally recruited Hill to Memphis, is now tasked with rebuilding Arkansas’ roster after significant turnover. Quarterback depth is a major question mark in Fayetteville with former starter Taylen Green out of eligibility. Redshirt freshman KJ Jackson currently has the most experience on the Razorbacks’ roster, appearing in five games with one start last season. Given the lack of proven options, it would not be surprising if Arkansas becomes heavily involved in Hill’s recruitment.
Hill’s familiarity with Silverfield’s program goes beyond just the head coach. Arkansas also employs offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey, the same OC Hill worked under during his freshman season at Memphis. That continuity could give Hill a significant advantage over other transfer portal quarterbacks, as he already has a full year of experience in the offensive system. For a coaching staff looking for a quarterback who can compete early, that familiarity could prove invaluable.
Elite Recruiting Pedigree and Long-Term Upside
Coming out of high school, Hill was one of the most highly regarded recruits in Memphis program history. A consensus four-star prospect in the 2025 class, he was ranked as a top-200 national recruit. ESPN listed him as the No. 5 quarterback in the country and the No. 61 overall player nationally, while 247Sports rated him as the No. 10 quarterback in his class. He was also ranked No. 15 at his position by other major recruiting services.
Hill chose Memphis over Florida after taking official visits to both programs, a decision that highlighted how much he valued Silverfield and the Tigers’ coaching staff. That trust could now resurface as Hill looks for his next destination.
At Houston County High School, Hill was a prolific four-year starter who threw for over 10,000 yards during his prep career. He averaged more than 300 passing yards per game and totaled 129 touchdown passes while maintaining a 65 percent completion rate. His production, combined with his recruiting pedigree, makes him one of the more intriguing young quarterbacks expected to hit the portal this cycle.
With roster turnover looming in Fayetteville and several quarterbacks expected to be available in the transfer portal, Hill stands out as a logical target for Silverfield. His prior experience in the system, relationship with the coaching staff, and remaining eligibility all point to a potential reunion that could benefit both sides. If Arkansas is looking for a young quarterback with upside who can quickly acclimate, AJ Hill may be near the top of the list.