In his second year back at the University of Arkansas, offensive line coach Eric Mateos spoke about the development of his group over the offseason. Mateos shared that he believes the offseason additions and returning players will be impactful on this year’s offensive line.
Competition for Spots Heating Up in Fall Camp
Mateos mentioned he would like to have seven offensive linemen who are ready to play this season. He also stated that there are multiple battles for starting positions between returners and new transfers.
“To me, if you earn the right to play, you should get to play,” Mateos said. “You know, if there’s a clear drop-off, then that’s when you should start questioning.”
Youth Impresses
The battle for playing time isn’t limited to upperclassmen. Mateos spoke highly of the young offensive linemen the staff brought in.
“Maybe the best group of freshmen I’ve had,” Mateos said. “As far as toughness, football IQ, passion for the game. They just check a lot of boxes for young guys, and they all check that physical maturity box I talked about.”
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Portal Additions Shake Up the Line
Through the transfer portal, Arkansas added Corey Robinson II. With his arrival, Fernando Carmona was moved inside to guard after playing left tackle last season. Though changing positions can come with growing pains, Mateos said Carmona picked it up quickly.
“I feel like we got that figured out almost all the way through spring ball and throughout the summer and this training camp,” Mateos said. “He [Carmona] had one rep two days ago where he kind of turned into a left tackle on the three technique, and I said, ‘Hey, you’re not left tackle.’ It shows up every now and then, but I think he’s done a great job.”
Mateos also spoke highly of Robinson and his mentality entering his first season in Fayetteville.
“The great thing about Corey is he’s very coachable. He knows his strengths and weaknesses, and he’s not satisfied,” Mateos said. “He’s done a good job, he’s not perfect, and has got a lot of stuff to work on, but he’s an eager and willing soldier.”
Targeted Transfers and Veteran Leadership
Mateos was very selective in the players he pursued through the portal. Like with Robinson, he wanted a tackle who excelled in pass protection, an area that was problematic last season. He also added veteran center Caden Kitler, who brings experience in hostile environments and a calm presence in high-pressure situations.
In addition to adding experience, Mateos emphasized the importance of developing young players who can learn from the veterans ahead of them and still have plenty of eligibility remaining.
Looking Ahead
As fall camp rolls on and competition remains fierce, Mateos will eventually settle on the five linemen who consistently perform at the level he expects. With several position battles still ongoing, the window is open for players to seize their opportunity. Whoever rises to the occasion will be tasked with anchoring the Razorbacks’ offensive front in 2025.