FAYETTEVILLE — Defensive tackle Isaiah Nichols will not play for Arkansas at the Liberty Bowl against Kansas, a school spokesman confirmed Saturday.
Nichols, a fifth-year senior, posted a message to his Instagram page Friday night that read, “Farewell Razorback Nation.” He was not at the Razorbacks' practice Saturday morning.
Nichols is expected to enter the NCAA transfer portal with one season of eligibility remaining. He retained a redshirt by playing three games in 2018 and was given an extra year of eligibility due to the 2020 season disrupted by covid-19 protocols.
A graduate of Springdale High School, Nichols started all 12 games for the Razorbacks during the regular season and recorded 16 tackles, 1 tackle for loss and 2 quarterback hurries. He started 22 games over the past three seasons.
Nichols is Arkansas’ eighth primary starter from the regular season who will not play during the Dec. 28 game against Kansas in Memphis. Center Ricky Stromberg, receiver Jadon Haselwood and linebacker Drew Sanders have opted out as they prepare for the NFL Draft; linebacker Bumper Pool is recovering from hip surgery; and tight end Trey Knox, receiver Ketron Jackson and punter Reid Bauer have entered the transfer portal.