2025 4-star RB Jamarion Parker commits to Arkansas: 'They've been on top for a while'

St. Louis (Mo.) Cardinal Ritter College Prep 2025 four-star running back Jamarion Parker first visited Arkansas during his freshman year. He returned a second time, and the Razorbacks became a program that stood out early in his recruitment.

Over the past two years, he’s amassed more than 25 early offers, including The Razorbacks, Oregon, Purdue, Louisville, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Michigan State. After visiting Fayetteville for the fifth time when he tripped there this summer, he felt like it was time for a commitment.

On Friday, he publicly announced for the Razorbacks and head coach Sam Pittman.

“It started with visits to Arkansas two times during my freshman year,” he told On3. “Now I have been there five times. It is always great there, I feel comfortable, and I love it there. It is not too far from home and it is fun going back and forth. Just being on campus feels right. The coaches make me comfortable and the atmosphere is a lot like mine at home.”

Pittman and his staff made an impression early and often on Parker, who says the Razorbacks have been at or near the top for pretty much his entire recruitment.

“In my mind, since my freshman year, they have been up there,” he added. “They recruited me hard from the beginning. I picked them because how comfortable they made me feel, Coach Smith, Coach Pittman and the whole staff all mess with me. They just know me and make me feel at home.”

RBs Jimmy Smith played a pivotal role with Parker

In addition to Pittman’s personal involvement in the recruitment, the efforts of running backs coach Jimmy Smith were as crucial as anything in landing Parker.

The two have developed a strong relationship both on and off the field.

“He is a real coach, and he’s been on me hard since freshman year,” Parker said. “He always lets me know how much they want me, and we have built a connection. I have great talks with him and we have a great connection now. He is real and I like him a lot. Arkansas made me feel special, like they wanted me. From Coach Pittman to Coach Smith all the way down the whole staff.”

Parker is also excited about the chance to play in the SEC and compete against the nation’s best.

“They play tough teams and have a great schedule this season,” he said. “They have been playing well under Pittman and I am ready to get there and get developed. They produce running backs, they feature the running backs and I am ready to help.”