Arkansas’ next head coach: Top 4 best candidates if Sam Pittman is fired due to the recent commitment fans and team members have finally agreed that…

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Arkansas’ Next Head Coach: Top 4 Best Candidates If Sam Pittman Is Fired

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Razorback faithful may have reached a tipping point.

Following another disappointing start to the season, the pressure on head coach Sam Pittman has reached a boiling point. Amid dwindling fan support, mounting player frustration, and consistent underperformance in the SEC, sources close to the program suggest that a coaching change may be imminent.

Recent developments—including a lackluster home loss and the decommitment of a top 2025 recruit—have galvanized both fans and boosters. Many now agree: the time has come to consider a new direction. If Pittman is indeed let go, Arkansas will be on the hunt for a head coach who can immediately revive the program’s competitiveness and identity.

Here are the Top 4 candidates to watch if Arkansas moves on from Sam Pittman:

1. Gus Malzahn – UCF Head Coach

A native Arkansan and former Arkansas State head coach, Gus Malzahn has long been linked to the Razorback job. Currently leading UCF into its Big 12 transition, Malzahn brings SEC experience, having coached Auburn to a national title appearance in 2013. Known for his high-powered offenses and recruiting ties in the South, Malzahn would be a familiar—and potentially stabilizing—face in Fayetteville.

2. Mike Elko – Texas A&M Head Coach

If things go south at Texas A&M, Mike Elko could become a serious target. A defensive mastermind, Elko has earned praise for revitalizing Duke’s program before jumping to College Station. His SEC experience, no-nonsense leadership, and proven ability to win at tough jobs make him a compelling candidate for Arkansas, especially if the program wants a strong defensive identity.

3. Jon Sumrall – Troy Head Coach

Sumrall has quietly built a powerhouse at Troy, leading the Trojans to a Sun Belt title and back-to-back 10-win seasons. Known for discipline, toughness, and player development, Jon Sumrall could be a rising star ready for the Power Five stage. He fits the mold of a hungry, high-upside hire—something Arkansas might need to spark a turnaround.

4. Rhett Lashlee – SMU Head Coach

Another name gaining traction is Rhett Lashlee, the young, innovative head coach of SMU. With deep ties to the state (he played quarterback at Arkansas under Houston Nutt), Lashlee offers offensive creativity and recruiting energy. As SMU joins the ACC, Lashlee has gained valuable experience managing transition—something Arkansas may face in an ever-shifting SEC.

Honorable Mentions:

• Lance Leipold (Kansas) – Master program rebuilder.
• Barry Odom (UNLV) – Former Arkansas DC now thriving as a head coach.
• Alex Golesh (USF) – Young and rising offensive mind.

The Bottom Line

While Sam Pittman’s early tenure showed promise, the current trajectory is unsustainable. With fans, donors, and even players voicing concern, the Arkansas athletic department may be forced to make a bold move. Whether they look for experience, upside, or familiarity, the next hire could define Razorback football for the next decade.