Hogs targeting Memphis’ Silverfield to lead football program

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Arkansas coaching search apparently has decided on Memphis coach Ryan Silverfield as the school looks to reset its football program after a difficult season.

According to 247Sports’ Brandon Marcello, Arkansas is “working toward a deal” that would make Silverfield the next head coach in Fayetteville.

That comes after the school finished 2-10 and 0-8 in conference play. It was the third time in the last nine seasons the Hogs have had that record.

Silverfield led Memphis to an 8-4 season in 2025, and the Tigers beat Arkansas 32-31 in Week 4. Even with a late-season slide, he has guided the program to consistent success.

The Razorbacks have explored several candidates, but Silverfield has gained momentum in recent days. His seven-year record at Memphis sits at 50-25, including 11-2 in 2024 and 10-3 in 2023. He also took the Tigers to multiple bowl games and won a program-record 42 games over his first five seasons.

The Memphis leader originally took over as head coach in December 2019 and has kept the Tigers competitive while navigating realignment and roster changes.

His familiarity with regional recruiting and program building has made him an appealing candidate during this Razorbacks search.

Memphis struggled down the stretch this fall, dropping its final three regular-season games before closing 2025 at 8-4. But the larger body of work remains strong, including bowl wins and steady top-25 consideration throughout 2023 and 2024.

The Hogs are evaluating what comes next as they try to rebound from one of the roughest stretches in program history. Silverfield’s resume and regional ties appear to position him as a frontrunner as discussions progress.

Arkansas fired Sam Pittman after another difficult season, and Bobby Petrino served as interim coach. The program now seeks stability, a different offensive footprint, and a coach with recent success building rosters in the changing landscape of college football.

The search has moved quickly, and while a deal is not finalized, Silverfield’s candidacy has advanced to the point where sources expect movement soon.

Silverfield’s track record stands out

Silverfield’s background includes steady growth at Memphis, where he built consistent winning habits and became the program’s first coach to win back-to-back bowl games.

After taking over the program prior to the 2019 Cotton Bowl, he helped continue a stretch of competitive seasons.

The Arkansas decision-makers value his ability to maintain stability over time. Memphis’ 2024 season featured an 11-2 record, marking the program’s first AP Top-25 finish since 2019.

His teams have won in different styles, leaned on strong offensive identities, and found ways to compete against Power Five opponents, including Arkansas.

Silverfield also guided the Tigers to an AAC championship in 2019 when he was promoted following the conference title game. That season ended with a New Year’s Six appearance.

The Razorbacks are attracted to his proven track record of bowl eligibility, consistent player development, and success in one-score games.

His program’s 50-25 overall mark reflects stability Arkansas has struggled to find in recent years.

Memphis has also remained competitive in recruiting within the region, and Silverfield’s familiarity with the area has added appeal as Arkansas evaluates fit, structure, and long-term potential.

The Tigers’ late-season slide in 2025 has not changed the broader view of Silverfield’s tenure. Two straight 10-win seasons followed by an eight-win campaign give the Hogs confidence he could build a foundation capable of handling the SEC’s difficulties.

What remains before final decision

Arkansas is “working toward” a deal, but the process is not yet complete. The school is evaluating contract logistics, timing, and staff plans before moving to the next step.

The Arkansas administration has been active behind the scenes as it tries to close the search quickly and prepare for roster decisions, recruiting deadlines, and offseason evaluations.

Sources told 247Sports the goal is to bring stability and a steady identity, and Silverfield offers those traits. Conversations have progressed, and optimism has grown within the search.

The Razorbacks know that the SEC grind requires depth, development, and a head coach able to organize the program year-round. Silverfield’s seven seasons have included steady results, postseason success, and a reputation for consistent preparation.

Arkansas continues to explore staff possibilities, recruiting structure, and transition timelines. While nothing has been finalized, Silverfield’s position as the leading candidate has solidified as discussions have advanced.

For the Hogs, the coming days will determine whether this coaching search ends with a hire or extends into another round of interviews. But based on the information available, Silverfield remains the strongest candidate to take over the program.

Key takeaways

• Arkansas is working toward hiring Memphis coach Ryan Silverfield after a 2-10 season.
• Silverfield’s 50-25 record and consistent bowl appearances position him as the leading candidate.
• Arkansas seeks stability, development, and regional recruiting strength as the search nears its conclusion.