Arkansas receivers coach Michael Smith and the SEC has defensive back Deshawn Raymond highly interested in the Hogs.
Raymond, 6-2, 182, 4.52 seconds in the 40 yard dash, of Metairie, (La.) East Jefferson has approximately 20 scholarship offers but lists Arkansas, LSU, TCU, Mississippi State and Georgia as his top five schools.Video highlights CLICK HERE
“I like Arkansas a lot,” said Raymond, who's being recruited to play cornerback by the Hogs. “I’ve been talking to Coach Smith and we’re from the same place. I like him, so I will be seeing Arkansas in the future.”
Raymond’s brother, Derrick signed with LSU in 2012 but left after the 2013 season and enrolled at Southeastern Louisiana in January.
“I like everything about Arkansas, they’re in the SEC,” said Raymond, who has a 35 inch vertical said. “You have to be good to play in the SEC and I just like the relationship that I have with some of the coaches.”
Raymond is also a standout in track and runs the grueling 400 meters along with the 4x200 and 4x400 relays. He has a best of 48.9 seconds in the 400.
“That last hundred,” said Raymond of when the pain of the 400 meters hits him. “I really don't feel it until the last hundred.”
His comfort level and ability to trust the coaching staff will play a big role in his decision. He said he trusts Smith.
“That's why want to go to Arkansas in the future and get a little closer,” Raymond said.
Raymond, who has a 3.2 grade point average, is considering business or sports management as majors. He plans to take his five official visits before making a decision.
His uncle Jamie Vance is helping him with the recruiting process.
“My uncle helps me with everything,” Raymond said. “He gives me the do’s and don’ts of each school. He’s going to help me through the whole process. He has a lot of common sense.”