Eric Gregory is a ‘tweener.
Twenty years ago that would have meant he was a defensive end and outside linebacker hybrid, an edge rusher who could play with his hand on the ground or standing up on the outside.
But in Arkansas’ defense in 2021 and likely again in 2022, Gregory is a ‘tweener of another sort: he’s a defensive tackle and defensive end and equally adept at either spot.
“We’re moving him around a good bit,” said defensive line coach Deke Adams. “The more versatile you are, the better you are as a group. And as a person, your value (increases) to the team.”
Gregory showed his worth to the squad last year as a sophomore, so it isn’t a question about what he brings to the table. He had 27 tackles, including one for loss, and three quarterback hurries splitting his time behind John Ridgeway on the inside and Tre Williams on the outside.
Right now, it’s been enough to get him reps as a first-teamer on both the three-man and four-man defensive fronts Arkansas has run this fall. Joining him at the other end most often has been Zach Williams, Arkansas’ leading returner sack artist.
The two together could provide the Razorbacks with their best pass rush in years.
“He can be on the edge, he can be inside,” Williams said. “He knows the plays. He can be put anywhere on the line, and that’s really good to see.”
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