Arkansas officially names Marcus Woodson as co-defensive coordinator

Unlike the “co-” titles that always seem to accompany a Razorback player deserving of SEC player of the week honors, this is one that Arkansas fans can get behind.

The football team made the hiring of Marcus Woodson official on Wednesday and revealed that his title will be as co-defensive coordinator. That means he will be working alongside Travis Williams, who was named Arkansas’ next defensive coordinator in December.

In most instances, the “co-” title in college football is more of a formality to pay a bigger salary for a coach. It’s not unusual, either, as all four teams in this year’s playoff (TCU, Georgia, Michigan and Ohio State) have co-coordinators on their staff.

Woodson was the defensive passing game coordinator at Florida State for the past two seasons. That could hint to him having more influence over the Arkansas secondary and pass defense, while Williams has more influence over the defensive line, linebackers and run defense. Until we hear from Sam Pittman on the hiring, we won’t know what direction the team is going.

One thing the move does point to, is the fact that Arkansas football is going “all-in” on coaches with reputations as elite recruiters. Tight ends coach Morgan Turner, defensive coordinator Travis Williams and now, co-defensive coordinator Marcus Woodson all have track records of being able to recruit high-level prospects.

Let’s do this @Coach_MWoodson!!! pic.twitter.com/P4mz0SJmfE

— Arkansas Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) January 4, 2023