Arkansas was expecting true freshman running back T.J. Hammonds to impact the squad right early. Possessing supreme quickness and agility, he’ll theoretically be able to offer an exciting dimension to the Hogs’ offense.

On Monday, it was announced by head coach Bret Bielema that Hammonds slightly tore his meniscus during a non-contact warm-up drill. The initial diagnosis had Hammonds missing two-to-three weeks.

However, that diagnosis proved to be false. Via a report from Rivals.com, Hammonds is already back running…a week after the knee procedure. This development surely has to be pleasantly surprising for the Arkansas coaching staff. With the runner back in the fold, there’s a real chance (barring a set back) that Hammonds could feature in the season opener versus Louisiana Tech on Sep. 3.

A 4-star recruit in the 247Sports composite rankings, the Little Rock native signed with the Razorbacks over offers from Arizona, Arizona State, Duke, Georgia, Oklahoma State, and TCU, among others.