Jordan Domineck, Hudson Clark on KJ Jefferson returning to practice: He's not holding back

Arkansas was missing their star quarterback KJ Jefferson in their most recent game where they fell to No. 16 Mississippi State 40-17. Jefferson suffered a head injury the weekend prior against Alabama, but has returned to practice this week and will be available for the Razorbacks next matchup versus BYU. Jefferson’s defensive teammates Jordan Domineck and Hudson Clark both spoke about having him back at practice this week

“It’s a nice feeling to be able to see KJ back in there and make strides, be able to throw the ball well, he’s running well, he’s playing really well,” Domineck said.

Backup quarterback Malik Hornsby played in place of Jefferson in their loss to Mississippi State, completing eight of his 17 pass attempts for 234 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, while also adding 114 yards on the ground. Jefferson may be back at practice this week, but apparently Hornsby isn’t giving the job back very easily.

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“And then Malik, also knowing he’s still out there giving KJ competition, both of them are fighting for the QB1 spot right now. It’s just nice to know that we have to QBs that are really devoted to the team that are really willing to put their all onto the field just to be able to lead their side of the ball to victory, just be able to play, know their assignments,” Domineck said. “Honestly it’s great to have both of them out there and it’s just great to be able to go against that level of competition every day honestly.”

Even including the last game that he missed, Jefferson has accounted for over half of Arkansas’ total yards and touchdowns this season with his arm and legs, generating 1,408 yards of offense and 13 touchdowns in his five games played. It’s hard to imagine him not being the QB1 moving forward with him being healthy, but it’s nice to know that he’s being pushed by his peers at practice, as he’s apparently hit the ground running this week.

“And I think you can see people come back from that injury, a head injury, and play a little hesitant and he’s gotten back in there he’s making the throws, he’s running the ball. So I think it’s gonna be a big help and key for us this week,” Clark said.

The Razorback’s latest loss is their third in a row after winning their first three straight, as they look to get their winning record back against the Cougars and remain undefeated in non-conference play this season, hopefully with the help of their star quarterback.