Arkansas quarterback KJ Jefferson back at practice

KJ Jefferson was back at Arkansas football practice on Monday, giving Razorbacks’ faithful a sigh of relief.

The second-year starter missed Arkansas’ 40-17 loss at Mississippi State and while Malik Hornsby showed his ability to be electric, the offense never really found consistency, especially through the air.

Jefferson was getting Heisman Trophy darkhorse whispers after three weeks. His fumble near the goal line against Texas A&M changed things. Not just for him. The Hogs lost that game, lost to Alabama the next week and have now dropped three straight and out of the Top 25.

Jefferson’s return to health, and form, are paramount for a Hogs team still with New Year’s bowl dreams. Such dreams will be tested Saturday when they travel to Brigham Young, a team that also dropped out of the rankings after losing to Notre Dame in Week 6.

Arkansas coach Sam Pittman said Jefferson was almost at full-health for Monday’s practice. He couldn’t do contract, but as a quarterback, he wasn’t going to, anyway.

His return could provide Arkansas a spark its been missing. Pittman said his team has faith and is confident, anyway.

“We haven’t lost the team or anything,” Pittman said. “I think we’ll have a great week of practice. Plan to get our QB back.”