The Arkansas Razorbacks continue to reshape their football staff with the official addition of three experienced assistant coaches: David Johnson (running backs), Marion Hobby (defensive line), and Eddie Hicks (cornerbacks). While all three hires had been previously reported, they’re now confirmed by the university, signaling another step forward in head coach Sam Pittman’s efforts to retool the program with seasoned, high-level coaching talent.
Let’s take a closer look at what each of these coaches brings to the table - and why Razorback fans should be paying attention.
David Johnson - Running Backs Coach
David Johnson arrives in Fayetteville with a résumé that reads like a blueprint for building productive, explosive backfields. He spent the last five seasons at Florida State, where he not only coached running backs but also served as the Seminoles’ recruiting coordinator - a dual role that speaks volumes about his ability to evaluate and develop talent.
Before his stint in Tallahassee, Johnson had SEC experience at Tennessee, where he coached both wide receivers and running backs. He also made a name for himself at Memphis as the passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach, helping to engineer one of the more dynamic offenses in the Group of Five ranks during his time there. Johnson has coached 19 all-conference players across his career - a testament to his consistency in developing high-level performers.
He’s also no stranger to shaping young talent at the high school and college levels, with earlier stops at Tulane and multiple Louisiana high schools. That deep southern recruiting footprint could be a major asset for Arkansas, especially in a conference where talent acquisition is often half the battle.
Marion Hobby - Defensive Line Coach
When it comes to defensive line coaching pedigree, few resumes carry the weight of Marion Hobby’s. His most recent stop was at Tennessee, where he served in an assistant and analyst role.
But the bulk of his experience comes from the NFL, where he spent eight seasons coaching defensive lines for the Bengals, Dolphins, and Jaguars. That kind of pro-level experience is hard to come by - and even harder to teach.
Before his NFL run, Hobby made a name for himself at Clemson, where he was co-defensive coordinator and defensive ends coach from 2011 to 2016. That stretch included multiple College Football Playoff appearances and the development of several future NFL standouts. He also had earlier collegiate stops at Ole Miss and Duke, as well as a stint with the New Orleans Saints.
As a former Tennessee Volunteer and NFL defensive lineman himself, Hobby brings not just coaching acumen but firsthand experience in the trenches. His presence on the staff gives Arkansas a proven developer of talent who understands what it takes to succeed at every level of the game.
Eddie Hicks - Cornerbacks Coach
Eddie Hicks may be the youngest of the trio, but don’t let that fool you - his coaching journey has taken him through a wide variety of roles that have prepared him well for his new position in Fayetteville.
Hicks spent the 2025 season coaching cornerbacks at Cincinnati, following two years as a lead defensive analyst at LSU. Prior to that, he coached corners at Jacksonville State, Charlotte, Southern Miss, Austin Peay, and Murray State - a steady climb that has seen him work with defensive backs at nearly every level of the college game.
A former All-Conference USA defensive back at Southern Miss, Hicks brings an intimate understanding of the position. His playing background, combined with a decade-plus of coaching experience, gives him a unique ability to relate to players and teach the finer points of the position. Originally from Clarksdale, Mississippi, Hicks also strengthens Arkansas’ recruiting ties in the Southeast.
A Staff Taking Shape
With these additions, Arkansas’ staff is starting to take on a clear identity - one rooted in experience, player development, and recruiting reach. Johnson brings offensive versatility and recruiting chops.
Hobby delivers NFL-level defensive line coaching. Hicks injects youthful energy and a technician’s eye for secondary play.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the Razorbacks’ current football staff:
- Head Coach: Sam Pittman
- Offensive Coordinator: Tim Cramsey
- Defensive Coordinator: Ron Roberts
- Wide Receivers Coach: Larry Smith
- Running Backs Coach: David Johnson
- Defensive Line Coach: Marion Hobby
- Cornerbacks Coach: Eddie Hicks
- Special Teams Coordinator: Chad Lunsford
- Strength & Conditioning Coach: Noah Franklin
For a program looking to climb back into SEC contention, these hires represent more than just names on a staff list. They’re foundational pieces in a coaching overhaul aimed at elevating both the on-field product and the recruiting trail presence.
Arkansas fans have seen flashes of potential in recent seasons. Now, with a staff built on proven experience and fresh energy, the Razorbacks are positioning themselves to turn those flashes into sustained success.