Coach Pittman Discusses Roster Changes and Team Updates on Season’s First Radio Show
In a revealing first appearance on his weekly radio show for the season, University of Arkansas head football coach Sam Pittman shared several important updates regarding the Razorbacks’ roster and schedule. Among the key takeaways: a strategic position change aimed at bolstering Arkansas’ defensive line and a shift in the team’s weekend practice plans to support a grieving teammate.
Blackstock Moves to Defense to Address Depth Needs
Coach Pittman announced that redshirt senior Keyshawn Blackstock, a 6-foot-5, 320-pound offensive lineman, has been moved to the defensive tackle position in response to depth concerns along the Razorbacks’ defensive front.
The move is largely in response to the team’s thinning depth at defensive tackle, especially following injury concerns with second-team lineman David Oke. Oke, who had been backing up the trio of Cam Ball, Ian Geffrard, and Danny Saili, may require a minor knee procedure that could sideline him for a couple of games. This has led to a temporary promotion for one of two true freshmen—Kevin Oatis or Reginald Vaughn—into second-team reps.
Blackstock, a native of Covington, Georgia, and a second-year transfer from Michigan State, is no stranger to high-level football. He started nine games for the Razorbacks last season across both guard positions and appeared in 12 games overall. He had been competing for a starting spot on the right side of the offensive line throughout fall camp, primarily with E’Marion Harris, Kobe Branham, and Shaq McRoy.
Confidence Remains High in the Defensive Front
Despite the reshuffling, Coach Pittman expressed confidence in the unit’s capabilities moving forward.
“I think we’re real solid, two-deep there,” Pittman said during the show. “Certainly that group can run, and they’re big. We’re doing some things to give them a better chance of making plays. So, I really like that group.”
While it remains to be seen how quickly Blackstock adapts to his new role on defense, the coaching staff clearly values his athleticism and versatility enough to make the switch late in fall camp. The move also reflects the Razorbacks’ willingness to adjust and experiment as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Practice Schedule Adjusted to Support CJ Brown
In a separate, more somber announcement, Pittman shared that the team has adjusted its weekend practice schedule to accommodate players who wish to attend the visitation and funeral for Carson Brown, the father of sophomore wide receiver CJ Brown.
Carson Brown passed away on August 12 in Springfield, Missouri. In support of CJ and his family, the Razorbacks have decided not to practice on Saturday. Instead, they will hold their mock game—a full-team simulation of game-day procedures and scenarios—on Friday night.
“We are not practicing on Saturday,” Pittman said. “Obviously, CJ Brown lost his daddy, and so we’re going to go pay our tribute to him. Then Monday, we’re going to start on Alabama A&M.”
Looking Ahead to Alabama A&M
With the season opener against Alabama A&M just around the corner, these late adjustments reflect the Razorbacks’ commitment to both team performance and player well-being. The coaching staff is not only focused on on-field readiness but also demonstrating the importance of team unity and personal support during difficult times.
Whether it’s shifting a key player like Blackstock to a new position or rescheduling a key practice in solidarity with a grieving teammate, the Razorbacks are showing flexibility and resilience heading into the new season.