Robinson salutes 2 Hogs, 7 others

Receiver Koilan Jackson, left, and defensive end David Porter congratulate each other after signing letters of intent to play at the University of Arkansas during a ceremony Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, at Joe T. Robinson High School in Little Rock.

Todd Eskola's pride was showing.

The Joe T. Robinson football coach sported a broad smile Wednesday afternoon as nine of his seniors -- including future University of Arkansas Razorbacks Koilan Jackson and David Porter -- signed letters of intent to play college football.

"A couple of years ago we set a goal with our program that we were going to make a conscious effort off the field to put as many of our young men in the next level as possible," Eskola said. "Our goal was to have more than anybody in the state. We worked tirelessly. We named a college recruiting coordinator in Brian Maupin, and he does a great job of taking our kids out and giving them exposure. Today, we're seeing the fruits of our labor."

A theaterlike screen displayed highlights of the players' careers as family, friends and the Robinson student body packed the Senators' gymnasium to witness the signings.

"I'm probably going to remember this day for the rest of my life," said Jackson, who hauled in 57 passes for 1,206 yards this season. "When I woke up, I was too excited. I had to wake my parents up. I was just ready to sign the papers."

Jackson, 6-3, 212, proved to be a versatile offensive weapon for the Senators. He caught 12 touchdown passes, ran 56 times for 487 yards and 8 touchdowns and he also threw an occasional pass, going 5 of 9 for 80 yards and 3 TDs.

"I think Koilan has a chance to be an immediate impact player," Eskola said. "He's polished. His first year to play receiver was this year, but he took to it like a duck takes to water. He's long, he's physical, he's athletic, he's fast."

Jackson said Eskola and the entire Robinson coaching staff were instrumental in guiding him to a higher level.

"They were always pushing me to be the best that I could be," Jackson said. "But they weren't just doing it for me. They were doing it for the team. They helped me become more of a team player."

Porter was a late addition to the Razorbacks' wish list, but the 6-3, 240-pound defensive end was more than pleased that the University of Arkansas made the offer.

"This means a lot," said Porter, who had originally committed to Colorado State. "I've grown up seeing people wearing Arkansas gear, talking about the game that's coming up on Saturday and then watching the game. Now I'm going to be in their shoes, getting ready to play for the University of Arkansas on Saturdays. It's a crazy feeling."

Porter had a productive senior season for the Senators, compiling 105 tackles (68 unassisted) while making 24 tackles for a loss and getting 10 sacks.

"David is going to explode," Eskola said. "David is going to get bigger, stronger and faster. He's already got a great motor."

Eight of the Robinson signees are staying in-state, with the only exception being U.S. Naval Academy commitment Myles Fells, a 5-11, 185-pound running back/outside linebacker.

Nose guard Sanderson Hines and quarterback Hunter Eskola -- the coach's son -- both signed with the University of Central Arkansas. Defensive end Tadrian Stout, center/defensive tackle Caelun Pettus, running back/strong safety Edmond Robinson and wide receiver/cornerback Corey Page are all staying in Little Rock to play for Arkansas Baptist.

Sports on 02/02/2017