Why freshman DB Tay Lockett is demanding playing time for Arkansas football
Story by
Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record
Why freshman DB Tay Lockett is demanding playing time for Arkansas football
Jackson Fuller, Fort Smith Southwest Times Record·Ft. Smith Southwest Times Record
·
3 min read
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FAYETTEVILLE —Tay Lockettwas living inCaliforniaand viewed as a potential five-star prospect with offers from schools like Georgia, Miami andOregonwhen he committed toArkansas footballback in 2023.
Since then, the outside projections of Lockett have declined. He finished his career at Conway High School as a three-star recruit in the 2026 class. He was rated the No. 98 safety in America by the 247Sports Composite.
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But inside their own building, theRazorbacksbelieve they've hit a home run and found a freshman who can contribute on defense right away.
"I always tell this to Coach (Eddie) Hicks, 'playmakers make plays',"Arkansassecondary coach Deron Wilson said. "The players that make plays, whether it's in college, whether in high school, the same thing that (Lockett) did in high school, he would do now."
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs after a reception during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) throws a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) tries to escape the grasp of defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) takes the handoff from quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over to the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Ty Lockwood (85) sit tackled by defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) and defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) makes a reception and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) jumps over defensive back Landon Phipps (32) and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) watches his extra point kick from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Charlie Collins (9) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) looks to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Carey Clayton (55) points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Khmori House (6) celebrates after breaking up a pass play during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Dequane Prevo (80) is tackled by defensive back Christian Harrison (1) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) looks to throw the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Miguel Mitchell (24) breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Donovan Faupel (8) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) intercepts a pass and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) kicks extra point from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) gets ready to pass the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) is tackled by linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Ian Williams (23) tackles running back Jasper Parker (21) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) attempts a field goal from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over his players during warmups before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) blocks defensive lineman Steven Soles Jr. (35) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws a pass over linebacker Bradley Shaw (7) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Members of the Arkansas Razorbacks band “calls the hogs” before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Max Gilbert (30) kicks an extra point from holder Gavin Rush (37) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) and offensive lineman Aaron Smith (65) block as defensive lineman Trajen Odom (28) rushes during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) hands off to running back TJ Hodges (22) as running back Sutton Smith (5) crosses in front to block during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Christian Harrison (1) kneels before the start of the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Antonio Jordan (19) is tackled by defensive back Jahiem Johnson (20) and defensive back Ian Williams (23) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) rolls out to pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman David Oke (92) gets ready to play in the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Xadavien Sims (88) drops back into coverage during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks take the field for the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) scrambles during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs after a reception during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield talks to his team after the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) throws a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas football projected 2026 depth chart after spring practices
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) tries to escape the grasp of defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) takes the handoff from quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over to the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks tight end Ty Lockwood (85) sit tackled by defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) and defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) makes a reception and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver CJ Brown (3) jumps over defensive back Landon Phipps (32) and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) watches his extra point kick from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Charlie Collins (9) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) looks to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Carey Clayton (55) points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield points during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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What we saw from Arkansas football quarterbacks at spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) tries to get around defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II (27) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Secondary pecking order revealed at Arkansas football's third fall camp practice
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Khmori House (6) celebrates after breaking up a pass play during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Dequane Prevo (80) is tackled by defensive back Christian Harrison (1) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) looks to throw the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Trent Sellers (43) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Miguel Mitchell (24) breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Donovan Faupel (8) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Nsongbeh Ginyui (15) intercepts a pass and goes on to score a touchdown during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) kicks extra point from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Cade Trotter (10) gets ready to pass the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Braeden Fuller (16) gets ready to throw a pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) is tackled by linebacker Ben Bogle (44) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Ian Williams (23) tackles running back Jasper Parker (21) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Braeden McAlister (39) attempts a field goal from holder Charlie Von Der Meden (46) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back TJ Hodges (22) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over his players during warmups before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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3 concerns we still have for Arkansas football after spring practices
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) blocks defensive lineman Steven Soles Jr. (35) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws a pass over linebacker Bradley Shaw (7) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Members of the Arkansas Razorbacks band “calls the hogs” before the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Max Gilbert (30) kicks an extra point from holder Gavin Rush (37) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Adam Hawkes (54) and offensive lineman Aaron Smith (65) block as defensive lineman Trajen Odom (28) rushes during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) hands off to running back TJ Hodges (22) as running back Sutton Smith (5) crosses in front to block during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Christian Harrison (1) kneels before the start of the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Antonio Jordan (19) is tackled by defensive back Jahiem Johnson (20) and defensive back Ian Williams (23) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) rolls out to pass during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jasper Parker (21) runs the ball during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman David Oke (92) gets ready to play in the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Xadavien Sims (88) drops back into coverage during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball on the sidelines during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Who shined during goal-line drills at Arkansas football's 5th practice?
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Cam Settles (27) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Hill (2) during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Arkansas football stadium naming rights financial details revealed | Report
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; The Arkansas Razorbacks take the field for the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
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Check out photos from Arkansas football's spring game
Apr 25, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (79) blocks as defensive lineman Hunter Osborne (0) rushes in during the spring game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
(Brett Rojo, Imagn Images)
Coaches can't stop raving about the 6-foot defensive back through the early stages of fall camp. In recent practices, he's run with the second-team defense alongside safety Kyeaure Magloire.
Dating back to the spring, Lockett showed a nose for the football. He rattled off interceptions and covered the right gaps when defending the ball-carrier.
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The projected starters at safety — Miguel Mitchell andChristian Harrison— are both fifth-year players. So is Magloire, making Lockett the baby ofArkansas' current two-deep projection at the position.
According to coaches and teammates, Lockett's football IQ does not coincide with his age.
"What's surprised me the most I'd probably say his intelligence on the field. It's a defense that isn't really that easy to learn, I should say. And he's come in and he's done everything he's supposed to," Harrison said.
Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts echoed that praise earlier in fall camp. He cited football intelligence as a big reason why Lockett and Danny Beale III are the two freshmen most-poised for playing time. Beale is also consistently running with the second-team defense in fall camp.
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But Lockett mixes his IQ and dynamism with a strong work ethic. TheRazorbackscould use the freshman as a punt returner this season whenSutton Smithneeds to conserve reps so the running back can star on offense. Lockett is embracing his potential impact on special teams.
"(Lockett) is very natural at catching (punts)," special teams coordinator Chad Lunsford said. "I wanted to see his ball security improve, because after he catches it, we were a little bit worried about that in the spring. He's been very intentional about that over the summer and into fall camp, so I think he's putting himself into the mix."
In some fashion, Lockett will log meaningful snaps in 2026. That will be a huge boost for an Arkansas program that has struggled to put freshmen on the field in recent years.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him@jacksonfuller16on X, formerly known as Twitter.
