KJ Jefferson had been a staple on the Arkansas football team for the last five years. His transfer left the Razorbacks with the biggest hole they have, arguably, ever had the position.
On Thursday, at Arkansas’ first spring practice without Jefferson since the Chad Morris era, Taylen Green took first-team reps. The Boise State transfer is one of four players vying for the starting gig this spring and the one with the most experience.
Green threw for more than 1,752 yards mostly as a starter for the Broncos last year, though he played off the bench during a stretch in the middle of the season. His 11 passing touchdowns led the team, but he also threw nine interceptions.
His biggest competition for the job at Arkansas is Jacolby Criswell, a Morrilton High grad. Criswell transferred from North Carolina the season before last and spent the 2023 campaign as Jefferson’s back-up.
Freshman KJ Jackson and redshirt freshman Malachi Jackson are also in the mix, though Jackson is largely expected to redshirt.
Whoever wins the job will have a bevy of options to whom he can throw. All of Arkansas’ top six receivers from last year returned. Jefferson, who left as Arkansas’ all-time leading passer, threw for more than 2,100 yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions last year. He transferred to Central Florida over the winter.
The Razorbacks will continue spring practices during the first week on Friday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.