Three Under-rated Razorback Signings Entering Silverfield's First Season

Which new players flying under the radar will make biggest impact for Arkansas next year?

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Arkansas has brought in a large influx of new talent under new head coach Ryan Silverfield, including 42 transfers and 23 incoming first-year FBS prospects. While several high-profile additions will make an immediate impact, there are also a few under-the-radar signings that could become key contributors in 2026.

Why it matters

Arkansas struggled mightily on both sides of the ball last season, ranking near the bottom nationally in several key defensive categories. These under-the-radar signings could help shore up some of the Razorbacks' weaknesses and provide much-needed depth and talent across the roster.

The details

The three under-the-radar signings highlighted are defensive end J'Lynn Allen, defensive back Jalon Copeland, and wide receiver Donovan Faupel. Allen is a JUCO transfer who had a standout freshman season, Copeland is a long, physical cornerback from a Georgia high school powerhouse, and Faupel is a transfer from New Mexico State who had a breakout 2025 campaign.

  • J'Lynn Allen signed with Arkansas as the No. 88 ranked junior college prospect in the nation, and No. 10 among defensive ends, per 247Sports recruiting rankings.
  • Jalon Copeland comes to Arkansas as the No. 961 ranked prospect nationally, No. 85 among cornerbacks and No. 99 in Georgia, according to 247Sports.
  • Donovan Faupel entered the transfer portal following a 2025 season that saw him record 61 receptions for 664 yards and four touchdowns at New Mexico State.

The players

J'Lynn Allen

A North Little Rock native and Hutchison Community College defensive end who earned an opportunity to be a Razorback following a stellar freshman season, where he finished with 31 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Jalon Copeland

A 6-foot-1, 185 pound cornerback who comes to Arkansas from Georgia high school powerhouse Valdosta, where he recorded 23 tackles, 12 pass break-ups, three interceptions, a forced fumble, fumble recovery and one quarterback hurry as a senior.

Donovan Faupel

A transfer wide receiver from New Mexico State who enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, recording 61 receptions for 664 yards and four touchdowns, earning second team All-Conference USA honors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Full season Highlights”

— J'Lynn Allen (Twitter)

The takeaway

These under-the-radar signings could provide a major boost to an Arkansas team looking to rebound from a difficult 2025 season. If Allen, Copeland, and Faupel can live up to their potential, they could help transform the Razorbacks into a more competitive squad in the SEC next year.