Arkansas Adds Promising Quarterback from Transfer Portal

A Calculated Move for Both Sides

Jackson, listed at 6-foot-3 and 187 pounds, enters the Razorbacks program with four years of eligibility remaining after redshirting his freshman season at Florida State. His only on-field action for the Seminoles came in a brief appearance against Charleston Southern, where he rushed for two yards. Though his time in Tallahassee was limited, Jackson’s upside remains evident, and Arkansas sees an opportunity to develop him behind returning starter Taylen Green.

Speaking with Hogville and Pig Trail Nation, Jackson pointed to Arkansas' coaching staff as a major influence on his decision. “The coaching staff, Petrino, Coach Pittman, they always have that great energy,” Jackson said. “Family ties and great coaching.”

He also noted his enthusiasm for the chance to learn from offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino in 2025, to eventually take the reins of the offense. “Just to come in, learn under Petrino, and then next year take over would be a great thing for me.”

First Impressions of Fayetteville

Jackson’s visit to Arkansas appears to have solidified his decision. “It’s a beautiful place. This is my first time here. The people are amazing. I just love the coaches,” he said. Among the highlights for Jackson were the facilities, specifically the indoor practice space and the lengthy weight room, which he described as one of the longest he’s seen in college football. “That was crazy,” he said. “It’s pretty cool.”

And, in true recruiting-visit fashion, the food left a lasting impression as well. “Big steaks. It was so good.”

Evaluating the Fit

Jackson was rated as a four-star prospect in the 2025 class and ranked among the top 35 quarterbacks nationally by major recruiting services, including 247Sports, ESPN, and On3. As a senior at Jones High, he recorded over 1,700 total yards and 17 touchdowns while leading his team to the state semifinals.

With the departure of Madden Iamaleava, who transferred to UCLA this spring, Jackson fills a key depth need in Arkansas’ quarterback room. He becomes the fifth addition from the portal during this transfer cycle, and the 26th overall this offseason, as Arkansas continues to reshape its roster following a 7-6 campaign that ended with a Liberty Bowl win over Texas Tech.

While Jackson won’t be expected to start immediately, his long-term potential and eligibility make him a strategic acquisition for a program looking to solidify its quarterback future.