Arkansas fans looking for a spark in the transfer portal got exactly that on Saturday, as former Ohio interior offensive lineman Davion Weatherspoon officially signed with the Razorbacks. A two-year starter and first-team All-MAC selection, Weatherspoon brings both experience and tenacity to a Razorback offensive line that’s been in need of reinforcements.
Standing at 6-foot, 303 pounds, Weatherspoon isn’t the biggest lineman in the portal, but what he may lack in prototypical size, he more than makes up for with his performance on the field. Last season, he started all 14 games for the Bobcats, anchoring a unit that helped power an offense averaging over 29 points and 406 yards per game. That’s not just solid production - that’s the kind of consistency you want from a veteran presence in the trenches.
Weatherspoon’s journey to Fayetteville included a visit on Thursday, and by Saturday, Arkansas had locked him in. His track record speaks for itself: 14 starts in 2024, 11 appearances in 2023, and a résumé that includes being a three-time all-state selection before his time at Ohio. That kind of durability and high school pedigree should translate well in the SEC, especially for a Razorback unit looking to rebuild its identity up front.
But Weatherspoon is just one piece of what’s been a whirlwind portal haul for Arkansas. The Hogs have been aggressive - and strategic - in addressing needs across the board.
It started with the addition of offensive guard Malachi Breland (Memphis), long snapper Adam Johnston (Sacramento State), and a pair of kickers in Braeden McAlister (Georgia State) and Max Gilbert (Tennessee). They also secured nickel/safety Christian Harrison from Cincinnati.
That early momentum carried over into Monday, when Arkansas added quarterback AJ Hill, running back Sutton Smith, and wide receiver Jamari Hawkins - another Memphis transfer who followed his former head coach to Fayetteville. Linebacker Ja’Quavion Smith also committed during his official visit, adding more depth to the second level of the defense.
Tuesday had its ups and downs. The Hogs missed out on Carius Curne (Ole Miss), a big target on the offensive line. But they bounced back in a big way, landing running back Jasper Parker (Michigan), defensive tackles Carlon Jones (USC) and Hunter Osborne (Virginia), and a major addition in four-star cornerback Jahiem Johnson (Tulane).
Wednesday brought more firepower. Former Auburn edge rusher Jamonta Waller kicked things off, followed by Clemson corner Shelton Lewis just 20 minutes later. Then came four-star linebacker Khmori House (North Carolina) and Kentucky linebacker Steven Soles - a flurry of defensive talent that immediately raises the floor of Arkansas' front seven.
Thursday was another busy day. The Razorbacks added highly sought-after Maryland corner La’khi Roland, tight end Matt Adcock (Memphis), and linebacker Phoenix Jackson (Baylor). They also brought in cornerbacks Tyler Scott (Georgia State) and Braydon Lee (Maryland), wide receiver Donovan Faupel (New Mexico State), offensive lineman Josiah Clemons (Memphis), and capped the day with a major win in top-ten offensive tackle Bryant Williams (Louisiana).
They weren’t done. Arkansas also secured a late flip in Carey Clayton, an offensive lineman out of Southlake Carroll (Texas) who had been committed to Memphis but hadn’t signed during the early period. That’s a savvy pickup that adds depth and potential to the offensive front.
The momentum carried into Friday, Jan. 9, when the Hogs landed prized transfer tackle Terence Roberson (OBU) and linebacker Jeremy Evans, another Baylor product. Tight end Ty Lockwood (Boston College) joined that afternoon, and the weekend brought more additions, including Angelo State quarterback Braeden Fuller.
By Sunday, Jan. 11, Arkansas had reeled in former Memphis safety Ian Williams, West Virginia linebacker Ben Bogle, and Boise State wide receiver Chris Marshall. Monday saw another offensive boost with LSU transfer wideout Jelani Watkins - a burner who adds speed to the Razorback receiving corps.
Then came Friday, Jan. 16 - the final day of the 15-day transfer window - and Arkansas didn’t let up. The Hogs added Colorado safety Carter Stoutmire, West Georgia corner Kyeaure Magloire, MTSU safety John Howse IV, West Virginia offensive lineman Ayden Bussell, Oregon defensive tackle Xadavien Sims, and Iowa State defensive back LaMarcus Hicks II.
This transfer window has been nothing short of a full-scale roster recalibration for Arkansas. The staff clearly recognized the need for reinforcements across every position group and went out and got them. From the trenches to the secondary, from special teams to skill positions, the Hogs have been relentless in upgrading their roster.
And with Davion Weatherspoon now in the fold, Arkansas has added a proven, battle-tested lineman who knows what it takes to win in the trenches. He’s the kind of player who can help set a tone - and for a program looking to turn the page, that kind of leadership and production is exactly what the Razorbacks need.