2025 athlete Quentin Murphy commits to Arkansas, Sam Pittman: ‘I love what he’s doing for the program’

Little Rock (Ark.) Parkview Magnet three-star athlete Quentin Murphy was at one point committed to Ole Miss. Yet Arkansas never stopped recruiting him. 

Murphy eventually decommitted from the Rebels and the Razorbacks, who have hosted the 6-foot-1, 205-pound recruit 15 times in Fayetteville, got to work to try and keep him in-state for his college football career. Arkansas’ efforts paid off as Murphy privately committed to the Razorbacks over Alabama, Syracuse and Tennessee around a month ago and made his decision public on Saturday. 

“The love is genuine,” Murphy told On3. “It’s home and in my home state. Coach Sam Pittman is a good guy and I love what he’s doing for the program. There’s going to be a change, especially with coach Bobby Petrino coming back as the offensive coordinator. For the next few years, Arkansas is going to be good. I love the coaches there, especially coach Pittman.” 

Staying home to play for Arkansas ‘means a lot’ to Murphy

Murphy last visited Arkansas a few weeks ago and likes how the Razorbacks’ coaches treat him “like family” when he is on campus. He shared that Pittman, Petrino, wide receivers coach Ronnie Fouch and co-defensive coordinator Marcus Woodson were very excited when he decided to choose the SEC program. 

The No. 5 player in Arkansas added that Pittman called his commitment “the best news I’ve heard in a while.” He is now ready to stay home and represent Arkansas during his college football career. 

“It means a lot, especially knowing that my mom and dad love the Razorbacks,” said Murphy, the No. 461 overall prospect and No. 17 athlete in the 2025 On3 Industry Ranking. 

Pittman and Fouch played crucial roles in Murphy choosing Arkansas

Murphy will be returning to Arkansas from June 7-9 for his official visit. That opportunity will enable the newest member of the Razorbacks’ 2025 recruiting class to reunite with Pittman. 

Arkansas’ head man first spoke with Murphy following the conclusion of his sophomore season. They have built a strong relationship since then.

“I like that he is always authentic,” Murphy said. “He’s going to be real with you. He’s a really good guy and nice and respectful. Also, he works hard and he wants to win. I love that about him… Coach Pittman is a hard-working man and stays up late figuring out what Arkansas can do better.” 

Fouch also played a key role in Murphy’s decision. The two first met during a Junior Day and grew their bond from there. 

“Coach Ronnie is laid-back, chill and really down-to-earth,” Murphy said. “He’s a fun guy to be around. He just got there, so he’s trying to build chemistry with all the other players, but he’s a good guy. I can see the progress he’s going to help Arkansas make.