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Arkansas Adds Speed and Depth with 2026 WR Commit
Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Arkansas Razorbacks continued their steady momentum on the recruiting trail Tuesday, securing a commitment from class of 2026 wide receiver Robert Haynes IV of Missouri City, Texas. Haynes, a 3-star prospect from Ridge Point High School, announced his decision on social media, selecting Arkansas over programs such as Louisville, Pittsburgh, UNLV, and others.

His pledge marks the latest addition to what is shaping up to be a well-balanced and strategically built class under head coach Sam Pittman and offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino.

Haynes Offers Track Speed and Versatility

Haynes, listed at 6-foot-2 and 175 pounds, is known for his speed, agility, and ability to separate from defenders, traits he showcased at the Under Armour Next Camp in Houston on April 19. Competing against several national-caliber receivers, including multiple 4-star recruits, Haynes earned MVP honors for the wide receiver group.

On the field, he turned in a solid junior season in 2024 with 32 receptions for 503 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 15.7 yards per catch. Off the field, he has posted a 10.77-second 100-meter dash time, signaling legitimate track speed that translates well to Petrino’s vertical passing scheme.

According to 247Sports, Haynes is currently ranked the No. 146 wide receiver nationally and the No. 129 overall prospect in Texas for the 2026 class.

A Calculated Fit for Petrino’s Explosive Offense

Arkansas' offense took a major leap forward in 2024 under Petrino, ranking 10th in total offense nationally at 460 yards per game and producing 246 plays of 10 or more yards, third-most in the FBS. The system emphasizes vertical spacing and distribution, which allowed 21 different players to record receptions last season.

Haynes' profile fits into this blueprint. His ability to stretch the field vertically and operate in space complements Arkansas’ evolving receiver group, which includes a mix of physical boundary targets and shiftier slot threats.

Wide receivers coach Ronnie Fouch, who led Haynes' recruitment, has made it clear that Haynes is a high-priority target. “Coach Fouch constantly reaches out to not just me, but my family,” Haynes said. “I can tell I’m one of his top guys.”

Looking Ahead: Strategic Depth and Future Visits

With Haynes on board, Arkansas now holds 13 commitments in the 2026 cycle, headlined by 4-star defensive end Colton Yarbrough and 3-star quarterback Jayvon Gilmore. The Razorbacks recently added three freshmen receivers to the roster and are expected to continue evaluating options for one final receiver slot in the class.

Haynes is scheduled to take an official visit to Fayetteville from June 13-15, joining a group of high-profile prospects visiting throughout the summer, including Texas A&M commit Mike Brown and top-50 national receiver Xavier Warren.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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