Junior college defensive lineman Melvin Johnson made an official visit to Arkansas in December and today publicly announced his commitment to the Hogs.
Johnson, 6-5, 285 pounds of Riverside City College in California chose the Hogs over scholarship offers from Kentucky, Iowa State and Toledo.
"It's a feeling I have that I can't describe," said Johnson, who privately committed to Arkansas Saturday night. "It's an amazing feeling my goals and my dreams and my work ethic finally paid off."
Johnson played defensive tackle at Canyon Springs High School in North Las Vegas and signed with UNLV in 2015, but failed to qualify and enrolled at Riverside. He played defensive end for Riverside this past season.
His visit to Fayetteville convinced him Arkansas was his future school.
"Once I landed, I just had a comfortable vibe with everybody," said Johnson said. "I don't know if it's the southern hospitality or what, but it was a family vibe. The fans were very supportive and unbelievable. The school was outstanding academically. Everything just blew my mind. I really felt comfortable there."
He was named a first-team Junior College All American by the California Community College Football Coaches Association after recording 37 tackles and 9 tackles for loss this past season.
He appreciated Coach Bret Bielema and director of recruiting E.K. Franks for believing in him.
"Coach Bielema and Coach E.K. Franks, I just want to thank them for believing in me and pushing me to my limits," said Johnson, who has three years to play two.
The Hogs plan to use him at defensive end in the new 3-4 scheme. He'll report to Fayetteville for the second summer session. He's the Hogs' No. 23 commitment for the 2017 class.