FAYETTEVILLE — When it comes to Nick Fulwider, Arkansas got a second chance to make a first impression.
Fulwider (6-7, 250 pounds), a defensive end committed to North Carolina, was one of 10 prospects that took official visits to Arkansas this weekend.
He had been recruited by Bret Bielema's staff, which was recently ousted and replaced by Chad Morris.
“This official was amazing,” Fulwider said. “I could not ask for anything more really. It was everything I expected plus more.
“Considering we don’t know who the D-line coach is and everything like that, I kind of came in with an uncertainty of like, 'Oh, I don’t really know these coaches and I am going to feel like a stranger.’ But they showed me so much love from the time we walked in. I just appreciate the whole coaching staff. The coaches that Coach Morris brought in.”
Fulwider had 33 tackles this season, including a sack and four quarterback hurries for Tyrone (Ga.) Sandy Creek.
He committed to North Carolina on Nov. 2 over Arkansas, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Michigan State, Syracuse, Georgia Tech, Duke, Iowa State, Minnesota and West Virginia, among others.
Fulwider plans to sign a letter of intent Wednesday, the first day of the early signing period for the class of 2018.
“I definitely need to go home and just think about things on the plane and see where everything stands. I felt like - me and my mom both - felt like this place was amazing. If we committed here, we wouldn’t have batted an eye," he said. "This feels like home to us."
Fulwider’s visit included a trip to the Catfish Hole restaurant.
“I was really surprised,” Fulwider said. “I didn’t know what to expect. I tried to get to the Catfish Hole over the summer when I came, but we never got a chance to.
“When I went to the Catfish Hole, it was amazing, especially the food. Oh my God, I felt like I was about to explode.’”