Not all college visits are equal and linebacker Jimmy McKinney and his father will attest to that after making a trip to Arkansas on Saturday.
“I loved it, I loved it all,” McKinney said. “He and I liked how it was well organized. It was very well organized. I just feel like they kind of already respect me. Like I’m just not like another kid to them.”
McKinney, 6-1, 230, 4.62 of Oologah, Oklahoma has 10 scholarship offers from schools like Colorado State, Ohio, Arkansas State, Air Force and Army. Video highlights CLICK HERE
Razorback Director of Recruiting E.K. Franks and his staff had McKinney's visit planned out.
“Like here I was met at the door and greeted,” McKinney said of Arkansas. “I just felt like I was at home and I felt very comfortable.”
He recorded 125 unassisted tackles, 67 assisted tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 4 quarterback hurries, an interception, 4 forced fumbles and 3 pass breakups as a junior.
McKinney, who bench presses 330 pounds and squats 475, also enjoyed sitting in position meetings.
“I sat in the back of the rooms and listened to their position meetings and I just liked how the coaches were talking to them and coaching them,” McKinney said. “It just felt comfortable. I felt like I could be coached well by them. I like a coach that can talk to you but also get a fire in your stomach and get you going.”
After talking with linebackers coach Vernon Hargreaves, McKinney plans to attend an Arkansas camp in June in hopes of earning an offer.
“He said he really liked my film and he’s going to come see me in the spring,” McKinney said. “They want me to come to camp this summer so I can get coached by them and know how they coach one-on-one and get them to see me in-person and how I move and stuff.”
McKinney also spoke with defensive coordinator Robb Smith.
“He said they’re going to take three or four (linebackers) in my grade this year,” McKinney said.