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Chad Morris impressed by Devwah Whaley’s weight loss, Arkansas’ RB depth
By Jake Rill
Published:
Devwah Whaley was a solid contributor for Arkansas last season. But this year could be even better for the Razorbacks’ junior running back.
Speaking at the team’s media day on Saturday, new Arkansas coach Chad Morris raved about how Whaley has used the summer to get in better shape, something that could bode well for both Whaley and the Razorbacks’ offense.
“You sit here and look at Devwah, the way he looks right now. I thought he was overweight in spring and just didn’t see it. He knew it, he felt it, he worked really hard this summer to get his body in shape and cut his body fat down,” Morris said. “A total difference, when you see him walk out on that field, he’s grinning the moment he grabs his helmet out of his locker.”
Whaley started 11 games and played in all 12 for Arkansas last season, rushing for 559 yards and seven touchdowns. He rushed for slightly fewer yards than he did as a freshman in 2016, but Whaley could be poised to have a breakout campaign this season.
The Razorbacks could get production from more than just Whaley in the backfield, as Morris is pleased with the depth they have.
“We all know in this league that you better have some depth at that position,” Morris said.
Here’s what Morris had to say about three other running backs on Arkansas’ roster:
On sophomore RB Chase Hayden: “He could go all day long. We could practice 24 straight hours and that guy, you’d never know the difference. He’s a machine.”
On junior RB T.J. Hammonds: “Another one that’s very versatile for us. He’s grasping the offense and understands what his strengths are.”
On redshirt freshman Maleek Williams: “If you looked at any of them and say, ‘Who’s improved the most?’ Maleek Williams, without a doubt. … He knows one speed and it’s wide open.”
Jake Rill contributes to news coverage for Saturday Down South. He has covered the SEC since 2016.
