Razorbacks target JUCO lineman Jarmaine Mitchell amid recruiting push

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas’ ongoing recruiting efforts under interim coach Bobby Petrino are extending deep into the junior college ranks, with Copiah-Lincoln offensive tackle Jarmaine Mitchell set to take an official visit to Fayetteville this weekend, according to a 247Sports recruiting notebook.

The 6-foot-8, 310-pound lineman from Mississippi, currently committed to Mississippi State, has emerged as a key target as the Razorbacks work to stabilize and strengthen their 2025 recruiting class following recent staff turnover.

Arkansas offensive line coach Eric Mateos is leading the push to get Mitchell on campus and give the Hogs a chance to flip him from the Bulldogs.

Mitchell’s recruitment underscores Arkansas’ renewed focus on size, physicality and immediate-impact linemen as Petrino and the staff try to rebuild depth and toughness in the trenches.

Mitchell weighing multiple offers

Mitchell, who played his high school football at Madison Central (Miss.), committed to Mississippi State in August but has continued to attract attention from SEC and national programs.

He recently took an unofficial visit to Georgia and has upcoming trips scheduled to Florida Atlantic and South Florida, according to multiple reports.

Arkansas extended its offer earlier this fall, intrigued by Mitchell’s combination of size, length and agility. According to On3, Mitchell ranks among the top junior college offensive tackles in the country and is expected to be an immediate contributor wherever he lands.

Petrino, Mateos emphasizing offensive line rebuild

While Petrino’s long-term status remains uncertain as Arkansas searches for its next full-time head coach, the recruiting message has stayed consistent: rebuild the offensive line with experienced players.

The Razorbacks have struggled with protection issues through much of the 2024 and early 2025 seasons, allowing among the most sacks in the SEC.

Mateos, who previously coached at Baylor and BYU, has been central to that effort. His development background and recruiting ties in the South have helped Arkansas stay active despite a challenging season.

“You can’t compete in the SEC without depth and leadership on the line,” Mateos said in an interview earlier this fall. “We want guys who bring experience and maturity. Jarmaine fits that profile.”

The Razorbacks currently hold 15 commitments for the 2025 class, ranking near the middle of the SEC according to 247Sports Composite rankings.

Adding a player like Mitchell would provide a boost both in perception and immediate roster help.

Recruiting climate remains competitive

With Mississippi State pushing to keep Mitchell on board, Arkansas faces stiff competition from SEC rivals.

Bulldogs offensive line coach Will Friend has reportedly stayed in close contact, while Georgia’s interest signals that Mitchell’s recruitment is far from over.

Mitchell’s junior college coach, Glenn Davis, described him as “a quiet worker who takes coaching and wants to get better every day.” Davis added that Mitchell has developed rapidly since transferring into the JUCO ranks after high school.

“His best football is ahead of him,” Davis said. “He’s still learning technique, but his frame and effort stand out right away.”

Arkansas’ renewed focus on JUCO talent also reflects a broader trend in college football recruiting, where transfer portal uncertainty has pushed programs to prioritize ready-made linemen who can fill immediate needs.

Outlook for Arkansas’ 2025 class

As Petrino and athletic director Hunter Yurachek navigate the program’s leadership transition, the recruiting class has become a stabilizing point.

Arkansas has targeted offensive linemen, defensive backs and wide receivers heavily this cycle, hoping to rebuild roster balance after several transfer portal departures.

If Mitchell follows through with his official visit, Arkansas could make a strong impression before he finalizes his remaining visits in November.

The Razorbacks have already hosted several key 2025 prospects in recent weeks, signaling a determined effort to keep recruiting momentum alive despite uncertain coaching circumstances.

Petrino has emphasized that recruiting will remain a “constant priority” as the Razorbacks aim to return to competitiveness in the SEC West.

“We’re going to recruit hard no matter what,” Petrino said in a recent media session. “The University of Arkansas sells itself. We just have to get the right players who want to compete here.”

Key takeaways

• Arkansas is hosting 6-8 JUCO tackle Jarmaine Mitchell for an official visit as part of its offensive line rebuild.

• Eric Mateos and interim coach Bobby Petrino are prioritizing size and experience on the line for the 2025 class.

• Mitchell remains committed to Mississippi State, but Arkansas, Georgia, and others continue to push for his signature.