Sam Pittman calls it a 'big deal' to get Taylen Green back

On Dec. 12, Arkansas starting quarterback Taylen Green announced he will be returning next season. Only two days after Green’s announcement, Razorbacks head coach Sam Pittman discussed the impact of Green’s decision.

“He wants to be a Hog, he wants to play here, he wants to play for the state,” Pittman said. “And that’s nothing against the guys that got in the portal. It isn’t. Their business is their business, but it’s a big deal to me that he wants to stay here and run it back and stay with Bobby and stay with that offense. I think it will be so big and beneficial to him, and it will help us in recruiting as well.”

Green transferred to Arkansas from Boise State ahead of the 2024 campaign. He immediately made himself at home, starting all 12 games for the Razorbacks, amassing 2,813 passing yards and 13 touchdowns, compared to nine interceptions.

Green’s arm wasn’t his only threat he also recorded 521 yards and seven touchdowns in the ground game. Now, Green will return to Arkansas for his final season of eligibility.

“I’m deeply thankful to God for putting me in the position I am today,” Green said in his post. “I appreciate everything Coach Pittman has done for me over the last year. His unwavering support, leadership, and belief in me throughout my time here has made this an incredible season both on and off the field. I’d also like to thank Coach Petrino for helping me grow as a player and for always challenging me to be my best.

“Also, I want to thank my family for their consistent love, sacrifices, and encouragement. With that being said, I’m incredibly grateful to be returning back to the University of Arkansas for my final collegiate season.”

Arkansas made significant strides this season with Green behind center. The Razorbacks finished the 2024 regular season with a 6-6 record, a two-game improvement from the 2023 campaign. With Green leading Arkansas’ offense, Pittman hopes to boost his program forward again next season.

Nonetheless, not every Razorback was as quick to pledge their allegiance to Arkansas after the regular season. The Razorbacks lost several key standouts to the transfer portal such as tight end Luke Hasz and cornerback Jaylon Braxton.

Arkansas will have to find new players to step up and lead the team, along with Taylen Green. These players will have an opportunity to do just that when Arkansas squares off against Texas Tech in the Liberty Bowl on Friday at 7 p.m. ET.