From Rival Sidelines to Same Backfield: Russell and Hodges Making Noise

Neighboring-town running backs from Benton and Bryant are making noise in Arkansas' first spring scrimmage

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:05pm

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Braylen Russell of Benton and TJ Hodges of Bryant, who grew up just a few miles and a couple of years apart in central Arkansas and competed on opposite sidelines in high school, are now teammates on the Arkansas Razorbacks football team. In the team's first spring scrimmage, both players stood out, with head coach Ryan Silverfield praising their efforts and potential.

Why it matters

The Razorbacks' backfield is loaded with in-state talent, and the emergence of Russell and Hodges, along with other local products like Cam Settles and Wyatt Simmons, highlights the program's ability to keep top talent from Arkansas at home. Their success could be a boost for the team's 2026 season.

The details

Russell, who has dealt with injuries and accountability issues in the past, has impressed the coaching staff with his slimmed-down physique and relentless effort. Hodges, a true freshman from Bryant, took some time to adjust to the college game but is now showcasing his speed and tenacity. Silverfield also highlighted the play of sophomore Cam Settles, who has shown versatility as a receiver out of the backfield, and Wyatt Simmons from Harding Academy.

  • The Razorbacks held their first live scrimmage of the spring on Saturday.
  • Last fall, Russell finished as the team's third-leading rusher, gaining 286 yards on the ground while averaging 5.2 yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns.

The players

Braylen Russell

A running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks who has dealt with injuries and accountability issues in the past, but has impressed the coaching staff this spring with his slimmed-down physique and relentless effort.

TJ Hodges

A true freshman running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks who is from Bryant, Arkansas and took some time to adjust to the college game but is now showcasing his speed and tenacity.

Cam Settles

A sophomore running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks who has shown versatility as a receiver out of the backfield.

Wyatt Simmons

A running back for the Arkansas Razorbacks who also received praise from head coach Ryan Silverfield after the team's first spring scrimmage.

Ryan Silverfield

The head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks football team.

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What they’re saying

“Braylen Russell, I've talked about, he has trimmed down and is playing hard. His effort has been tremendous. You have heard us talk about 'our standard,' Braylen Russell is on there for his effort almost every day.”

— Ryan Silverfield, Head Coach, Arkansas Razorbacks

“TJ Hodges is another true freshman who the first couple of weeks was big eyes and trying to figure it all out. Now he is getting settled so you get to see some of his speed and tenacity.”

— Ryan Silverfield, Head Coach, Arkansas Razorbacks

“Cam is a young running back who does a lot of things. Catches the ball really well.”

— Ryan Silverfield, Head Coach, Arkansas Razorbacks

What’s next

The Razorbacks will continue their spring practice schedule, with the next major event being the team's annual Red-White spring game on April 22.

The takeaway

The strong performances from in-state running backs like Russell, Hodges, Settles, and Simmons in Arkansas' first spring scrimmage showcase the depth and talent in the Razorbacks' backfield. Their success could be a key factor in the team's efforts to build on its 2025 season and compete for a conference title in 2026.