Sam Pittman provides latest on Hudson Clark’s health, safety depth

During his time in Fayetteville, defensive back Hudson Clark has filled in at many spots. Most recently, the fifth-year player is back at safety, protecting the Arkansas back end. Unfortunately, he is dealing with a shoulder injury, and head coach Sam Pittman provided the latest update on Clark.

A green jersey has been on Clark throughout the past week of practice, with Arkansas attempting to fully heal his shoulder. Pittman believes the process is working and is optimistic the Dallas (TX) Highland Park product is going to play against Texas A&M just a few miles away from his hometown.

“Hudson has had a shoulder banged up a little bit,” Pittman said. “We decided we were going to try to get it totally healed up this week. Which, I think we’re close to doing. I think we’re going to go ahead and have him in green again today (Wednesday)… I think Clark will be totally healthy for the game.”

Clark has played in all four games this season, having his best game, from a statistical standpoint, against LSU. He recorded eight tackles in Baton Rouge, a season-high. Overall, Clark has 13 tackles, one tackle for loss, and an interception to his name.

Getting back to full strength against Texas A&M is going to be critical for Arkansas in what is a near-must-win rivalry matchup.

Sam Pittman describes safety depth of Arkansas

After speaking on Clark’s health, Pittman gave a more generic view of the depth Arkansas has at the safety position. He believes everybody has played well there, saying some of the busted coverages when playing man have been due to the corners.

Overall, a positive review from the head coach just four games into the 2023 season.

“I think the safeties have played pretty well this year,” Pittman said. “In man-to-man coverage, we’ve had a little bit of — guys getting behind us have been more corner-driven than safety-driven. I’m liking how all three of those guys have played.

“Of course, you can call it four with Snacks being a HOG. I kind of look at him more as a linebacker than I do a safety. I think they play pretty well.”

The safety’s next test will be coming on Saturday against a talented Texas A&M team. Jimbo Fisher has a lethal wide receiver group at his disposal but the Aggies will not be afraid to run the ball either. The position group better be ready to rock.