What prompted KJ Jefferson’s departure from Arkansas? Provide details on the standout quarterback’s career statistics, age, height, and weight.
On Saturday, the anticipated move that had been speculated on for weeks became official. Arkansas quarterback KJ Jefferson has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, marking the end of his three-year tenure as the Razorbacks’ starting quarterback. Jefferson leaves behind a significant statistical legacy as the program’s all-time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns, pass completions, total yards, total touchdowns, and total plays.
The decision comes less than two years after Jefferson and coach Sam Pittman led the Razorbacks to a successful 2021 season, finishing with a 9-4 record and a top-10 ranking at one point. However, various factors led to Jefferson’s departure, including injuries, a decline in key statistics in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, and changes within the coaching staff.
Despite improvements in certain statistics in 2022, injuries and a struggling offensive line contributed to a 6-6 regular season for the Razorbacks. The 2023 season saw further setbacks, with Jefferson experiencing a decline in completion percentage, passing and rushing yards, and an increase in interceptions. The team finished with a 4-8 record, and Jefferson’s season was cut short after hyperextending his knee in the season finale against Missouri.
Several developments increased the likelihood of Jefferson’s departure, including the hiring of offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino and the commitment of transfer quarterback Taylen Green. Reports of Jefferson entering the transfer portal surfaced, and he eventually confirmed the decision, leaving with one season of eligibility remaining.
As a recruit, Jefferson was highly regarded, earning four-star status and ranking as the No. 10 dual-threat quarterback nationally in the 2019 class. Now 22 years old, Jefferson will turn 23 by the start of the 2024 season. The Razorbacks’ quarterback depth chart for the next season is expected to feature Taylen Green as the primary quarterback, with Jacolby Criswell and Malachi Singleton as backups. Additionally, the team has secured a commitment from KJ Jackson, a four-star prospect from the 2024 class.
