Razorbacks continue workouts on Wednesday

For the second straight day, the Arkansas football team practiced in Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium as the team continued its workouts through a light rain Wednesday evening.

Arkansas offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Paul Petrino spoke to the media following practice and discussed his thoughts on the first two days as well as a few players who have stood out.

“There are a lot of bright spots and definitely the guys understand the offense a little better so it is letting us put some more in,” said Petrino. “I think (Ryan) Mallett has had a good first two days, and has done some nice things. Jarius (Wright) made some big plays out there today and I saw Joe Adams moved around and caught the ball.

Although Michael Smith is not listed on the spring depth chart due to a hamstring injury, the Razorbacks are deep at the running back position with several players looking for time.

“You see the depth at running back, which is real exciting,” said Petrino. “You see them on film from yesterday’s practice and today. They know there are more guys so they are all competing against each other and that makes them work harder. That is really our ultimate goal at all positions. When you get enough talent and enough competition that they all know you really don’t have to say a word to them. You can pull a guy out and put the next guy in that is when you know you are where you want to be.”

Entering spring drills sophomore Chris Gragg was one of a few players who changed positions as he switched from wide receiver to tight end.

“He’s a lot bigger, faster and stronger,” said Petrino. “That’s a matchup when he is on a linebacker that will be tough to defend. He’s someone we are excited about, and he’s got to continue working with it.”

— HOGS —