Sam Pittman explains return of 7th-year senior Dorian Gerald after portal entry

Thanks to the NCAA suspending the annual signing cap, which limited teams to 32 new additions in a single class, the Arkansas Razorbacks will get another year with defensive lineman Dorian Gerald. Gerald announced his return to the program after entering the transfer portal in April. Head hog Sam Pittman explained how the senior went through the process to get his seventh year and return to Fayetteville.

“Great question, there were several things that went through with Dorian,” Pittman said. “Before the 85 for 85, the number was 25 plus seven. Then it went to 85. We didn’t have a scholarship. Nor did I believe Dorian would get cleared to participate either by the seventh year or physically. He received both of those late about a day or two after the 85 for 85 came out.

“We had an available scholarship. I called him and asked if he’d like to come back because I believe he can help the football team when healthy. He’s shown that when healthy. So, we offered him a scholarship and he accepted.”

Dorian Gerald returns to Arkansas

“After many nights of prayers, and tons of support from my family, coaches and loved ones! I like to finish what I started!! I’ll be finishing my last year of football here at THE University of Arkansas!! WOO DAMN PIGGG,” Gerald shared on Twitter.

Gerald has had an up-and-down career at Arkansas since transferring from JUCO program College of the Canyons for the 2018 season. He played just 42 snaps before suffering a season-ending leg injury in 2021. Two years ago, it was a strained artery in his neck that took him out. The 6-foot-3, 265-pound South Carolina native had his best season in his first year with 21 tackles.

Barring another injury setback, Gerald looks to be a force on the Razorbacks’ defensive line in the 2022 college football season.