KJ Jefferson is recognized as one of the best quarterbacks in the SEC, but it’s time to go beyond that.
It’s time to recognize him as one of the best in the nation.
Most of the top quarterbacks are no longer in the college ranks. After the departure of Bryce Young, Will Levis, Hendon Hooker, and Anthony Richardson (who I never thought was one of the country’s best), there is room for Jefferson to receive some national attention this season.
He started last season on the Heisman watch, but the early struggles by the Hogs as a unit took him out of consideration; but his numbers didn’t struggle. During the team’s inconsistent play in the first six weeks, he threw for 1,463 yards, 14 touchdowns, and four rushing touchdowns, turning the ball over only once.
For those who remember, the offense looked stagnant sometimes, and the receivers didn’t give much for Jefferson to work with. Yet, despite missing two games, he was still able to set new career highs in touchdowns, completions, and completion percentage.
Walking into the 2023 season healthy with a new offensive coordinator, Jefferson has a chance to eclipse 3,000 yards passing for the first time in his career.
Another reason is the new receiver core, which is expected to be much more explosive than the last year’s unit. The unit is young, but Jefferson is excited about whom he will be throwing to this season.
One of the concerns will be how often he runs the ball this season. Of course, running the ball is a significant component in Jefferson’s game and the Razorbacks’ offense, but how many hits do you want him to take? Pittman, I’m sure will keep an eye on that since it was the reason that left Jefferson’s sideline during the Razorbacks midseason skid.
Should we be expecting a Heisman in Fayetteville? Slow your roll—no need to curse him. Instead, we should expect a season that will land Jefferson in the conversation for the top quarterback prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft. If that happens, then the Razorbacks should have a great season.