Some NFL coaching experience is on its way to Fayetteville. According to On3’s Chris Low, Arkansas interim head coach Bobby Petrino is bringing in Jay Hayes to serve as the Razorbacks’ new defensive line coach.
“Bobby Petrino is adding veteran NFL assistant Jay Hayes as Arkansas’ DL coach, sources tell On3,” Low shared on X. “Hayes spent most of his time with the Bengals and has coached standout defensive linemen such as Geno Atkins and Carlos Dunlap. He also brings college coaching experience from stints at Notre Dame and Wisconsin.”
Since Petrino stepped in to replace the dismissed head coach Sam Pittman, several defensive staff changes have followed. Among the most significant was the departure of defensive coordinator Travis Williams after a tough loss to Notre Dame. Williams’ exit was accompanied by the departures of co-defensive coordinator Marcus Woodson and defensive line coach Deke Adams.
When Bobby Petrino stepped in as interim head coach following Sam Pittman’s dismissal, the Razorbacks saw notable shifts on the defensive staff. The most significant was the departure of defensive coordinator Travis Williams after a lopsided loss to Notre Dame. He was joined by co-defensive coordinator Marcus Woodson and defensive line coach Deke Adams, both of whom also exited the program.
Hayes steps in to replace Deke Adams, bringing a wealth of experience to Arkansas’ defensive line. As Chris Low noted, Hayes coached several standout NFL linemen during his time in the league, so working with top-tier talent is nothing new for him. His return to college football should be a smooth transition.
Fortunately, Hayes has some time to settle in before his first game on the Razorbacks’ sideline. Arkansas has a bye this weekend, giving the new coach a chance to get acclimated to the program. The Razorbacks’ next matchup is set for Oct. 11 on the road against Tennessee a team they defeated in 2024.
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