FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas’ second pledge of the 2021 class is also its second from the northeast part of the state.
Jonesboro outside linebacker Marco Avant (6-2, 215 pounds), who played last season at Forrest City, committed to the Razorbacks on Friday afternoon, according to a post on his Twitter account.
He did so about an hour after being offered a scholarship by Arkansas linebackers coach Rion Rhoades.
“I committed because I wanted to be close to home,” Avant said. “I’ve always liked Arkansas. It’s the big school in the state of Arkansas. My family always talks about Arkansas, Arkansas, Arkansas.”
His dad was happy for Avant, regarded as a 3-star prospect by 247Sports.
“They were excited," Avant said. "My dad was proud of me. He can’t wait for me to suit up and come watch me play. He always wanted me to go where I was wanted and I felt like I was wanted at Arkansas.”
He chose Arkansas over Kansas, Memphis, Arkansas State, ULM, Houston, Louisiana-Lafayette, Southern Miss, Tulane and Liberty. Ole Miss and Texas A&M were among other programs showing interest.
"I love the direction the new coaches have the program headed," said Avant, who was in Fayetteville on Feb. 1 for a Junior Day.
Avant had 83 tackles last season as a junior, including 52 solo stops, 12 tackles for lost yardage and three quarterback hurries.
Wynne offensive lineman Terry Wells (6-5, 290) previously committed to Arkansas' 2021 class.
"He (Rhoades) wanted me to be a part of the team," Avant said. "They're trying to rebuild the team around in-state players."