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KJ Jackson Named Arkansas' Starting Quarterback

Jackson's edge in situational drills gives the offense two weeks to build chemistry before the season opener.

Overview

  • The Razorbacks announced Sunday, Aug. 23, that junior KJ Jackson won the QB competition after a spring-to-fall battle with Memphis transfer AJ Hill.
  • Coaches said the choice came down to situational efficiency, citing Jackson's performance in two-minute and four-minute periods and his scrimmage production.
  • AJ Hill will project as the primary backup, and the staff expects both Jackson and Hill to see playing time in the Sept. 5 opener against North Alabama.
  • Jackson is a 6-foot-4, 225-pound left-hander who appeared in five games in 2025 and completed 33 of 54 passes for 441 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.
  • The naming of a starter gives Jackson time to prepare for Arkansas' early slate, which includes a Sept. 5 home opener (3:15 p.m. CT on the SEC Network) and a Week 2 trip to Utah.