KJ Jefferson says Arkansas offense will look ‘way different’ under Dan Enos

After the Arkansas Razorbacks lost offensive coordinator Kendal Briles to the TCU Horned Frogs, they moved quickly to replace him. They would end up bringing back one of their own, Dan Enos, to take over the position.

Enos brings with him a different offensive system, not at all the same as quarterback KJ Jefferson became used to. Still, the Razorbacks’ signal-caller is ready to take on the challenge of executing it.

During the SEC Football Media Days, On3’s Andy Staples was live on the scene this year. That is where the college football expert caught up with Jefferson, bringing him in as a guest for the Andy Staples On3 Podcast. And that is where the Razorbacks’ quarterback addressed how different the offense will look next season, along with his thought process in the pocket on whether to run or pass.

“It’s going to look way different,” said Jefferson. “I mean, we’re not as fast as we used to be in the past. (It’s a) pro-style offense, which has spread concepts in it. So the game is going to be a whole lot slower now, moving forward.

“I feel like it’s based off instincts. I mean, it’s kind of an instinct thing, but it’s also a mental thing, as well. Just knowing like, hey, I need to stand here in this pocket as long as I can and deliver a great ball. Or hey, I need to get out of this pocket and create an explosive play with my legs.”

Jefferson on his decision to return to Arkansas

Jefferson also revealed why he came back and how difficult the decision was for him to return to the program for one more season instead of trying his hand and declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft.

“It was really easy for me,” said Jefferson. “Just knowing that I wanted to come back because I didn’t play in a couple of games due to injury. And also, last year’s draft was a quarterback-heavy draft. So, being able to come back and give myself a chance. “

Jefferson put up big numbers in the Razorbacks’ offense for the second straight season. In 2021, he ended that season with a 164.7 passer rating, completing 67.3 percent of his passing attempts for 2676 yards, 21 touchdowns through the air, six on the ground, and just four interceptions.

Last year, he took his game a step further, finishing the season by completing 68 percent of his passes for 2636 yards, 24 passing touchdowns, and five interceptions. He also rushed for 640 yards with nine rushing touchdowns.