Wilson gushes over versatility of Larry Worth, Anthony Switzer

Arkansas secondary coach Deron Wilson was gushing over the versatility of newcomers Larry Worth and Anthony Switzer on Monday, a welcome sign for a defense looking for depth in fall camp.

After identifying a number of needs following spring practice, the Razorback staff went out and addressed them in bulk via the transfer portal with Worth and Switzer being the most notable additions.

Worth (6-4, 224, Jr) racked up 64 tackles and four sacks last season at Jacksonville State. His combination of size and speed have stood out in camp, and he profiles as someone who could contribute at multiple positions for the defense.

“When you think about Larry, you think about a guy that’s 6-3, 6-4 and has the ability to run a 48 (second) quarter,” Wilson said. “In most states, if you run the 400 in 48 seconds, you’re either going to be first or second in that event.

“When you think of him from a speed and length standpoint, he has position flexibility. Whether he can play outside linebacker/HOG position, whether he can play safety, we’ll find multiple ways to use him similar to the last place he was at.”

A similar conversation could be had about Switzer. The 6-0, 220-pound redshirt senior was an All-Mountain West selection at Utah State last year with 85 tackles, three sacks, eight TFL’s, four pass breakups an interception and a fumble recover.

While his size profiles more as a safety in the defensive backfield, Switzer’s physicality and willingness to get his nose dirty has led to him taking reps at linebacker as well.

“Multiple ways to use him,” Wilson said. “Whether it’s linebacker, he’s played boundary safety and has experience. He’s an extremely intelligent player. I think one day he’s going to be a really, really good coach. Just talking to him that guy is extremely intelligent.

“He has the ability to run with the toughness of a linebacker but the ability of a defensive back.”

Arkansas has completed five fall camp practices in preparation for the 2024 season opener on Thursday, August 29 against UAPB at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock (Ark.). Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. (CT).