Arkansas’ defense was two different tale of the tapes in 2014.

The Razorbacks boasted a run defense that ranked third in the SEC, however the back end was a liability. Arkansas picked off just 11 passes this season, which ranks ninth in the league, and allowed 221.4 passing yards per game.

Arkansas is youthful in the secondary, and loses a few key pieces including cornerback Tevin Mitchel and safety Alan Turner.

First-year defensive coordinator Robb Smith shored up communication issues that led to broken down coverages a year ago. Arkansas significantly reduced the number of big plays it gave up in the passing game.

Head coach Bret Bielema needs to add pieces to Arkansas’ current 2015 class, with only one defensive back committed.

Current secondary commits

  • Three-star safety — Dre Greenlaw, 6-1, 220 (Fayetteville, Ark.)

Other positions of need

  • Front seven — The departures of Trey Flowers, Martrell Spaight and Braylon Mitchell are key losses for the Hogs up front. Arkansas has added highly-regarded prospects in four-star defensive tackle Hjalte Froholdt.
  • Wide receivers — The Hogs lose Demetrius Wilson and face the possibility of an early departure or two to the NFL. The Razorbacks have received verbal commitments from four-star wideout K.J. Hill and four-star tight end Will Gragg.