FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As Arkansas embarks on a national search to revitalize its football program, Dan Mullen has emerged as a serious candidate.
The former Florida and Mississippi State head coach now leading UNLV brings both honed strengths and lingering questions, but his resume commands attention amid the Razorbacks’ quest for stability and upward trajectory.
Sam Pittman’s dismissal following a lopsided loss to Notre Dame sets the backdrop: Arkansas is seeking a new direction after a 32–34 record under Pittman.
Athletics director Hunter Yurachek has confirmed a national search is underway and that interim head coach Bobby Petrino will be among those considered.
Mullen brings SEC experience, early success at UNLV
Mullen’s supporters point to his sustained success in the SEC and his reputation for quarterback development. During his tenure at Florida, he coached QBs like Tim Tebow and Dak Prescott.
As UNLV’s coach, his team has started strong, currently 4–0, marking a credible return to form after a coaching hiatus.
According to “Pig Trail Nation’s Mike Irwin,” Mullen is “lobbying hard” for the Arkansas job. Sources close to former NFL coach Jon Gruden have also said he is “extremely interested” in the Arkansas job.
Mullen’s supporters argue he offers a high floor: he understands SEC defenses, can attract competent coordinators, and offers a track record over experimentation.
On the flip side, critics highlight concerns about Mullen’s recruiting limitations in the deep SEC marketplace and questions about whether his Florida exit casts long shadows.
One intriguing quote captured in the 247Sports piece: “If he won in Starkville, he can win in Fayetteville.”
That assertion underscores a broader belief that success in the SEC, even in a mid-tier program, translates to credibility in Fayetteville.
Arkansas considers other candidates alongside Mullen
Arkansas is evaluating several candidates beyond Mullen. As reported by Best of Arkansas Sports, the list includes Rhett Lashlee (SMU), Fran Brown (Syracuse), Alex Golesh (USF), Gus Malzahn (Florida State), and Tulane’s Jon Sumrall.
Some media outlets are listing Mullen among “high picks” alongside Sumrall and Jeff Traylor.
But Arkansas must also contend with the baggage of returning coaches, especially Petrino, whose previous Arkansas tenure ended in scandal more than a decade ago.
Meanwhile, Mullen’s candidacy avoids that trap but presents its own question if he can he recruit and energize a fan base long fatigued by turnover?
Risks, rewards and expectations for the next coach
For Mullen, the risk-reward ratio is clear. If he succeeds, he could lead Arkansas back into SEC competitiveness. If not, he might be viewed as a safe fallback whose ceiling is middling.
He faces pressure to deliver quickly — an especially delicate balance given Arkansas’ recruiting demands and performance expectations.
Booster sentiment matters deeply in Fayetteville. Some analysts believe the Razorbacks must present a compelling vision alongside a new hire, not merely a name.
Arkansas faces a balancing act trying finding a candidate who is credible but also forward-looking.
Mullen’s strength is credibility and experience. His stumbling blocks include recruiting against elite SEC programs, the baggage of past failures, and fan skepticism.
The final decision will hinge not only on whom Arkansas hires, but how that coach connects with players, boosters and the competitive terrain of the SEC.
The next steps in the hiring process
• Arkansas will formalize interviews and evaluate candidate portfolios this fall.
• Performance under interim coach Petrino could influence momentum for outside candidates.
• Mullen (if pursued) would need to present a robust recruiting plan to compete in Florida, Texas, Georgia and the Southeast.
• Any new hire must adjust quickly to SEC demands, in-game coaching, and building program momentum.
Key Takeaways
• Mullen’s SEC background and quarterback development give him a strong case as Arkansas evaluates candidates.
• Recruiting concerns remain a significant question for Mullen compared with younger coaches.
• Arkansas boosters and fans expect both credibility and innovation in the next hire.