FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas got a glimpse of life without star edge rusher Landon Jackson in their 39-26 victory over Texas Tech in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. Jackson, a staple for the Razorbacks over the past 37 games, opted to skip the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft, where he’s projected as a first-round pick. This left Anton Juncaj and Quincy Rhodes to fill his shoes on the edge.
Juncaj seized the opportunity in explosive fashion, finishing the game with 2.5 tackles for loss, a sack, and even a safety. His standout performance left fans wondering if his future in Arkansas might not be over just yet. A recent legal development regarding NCAA eligibility for former junior college players may pave the way for Juncaj to return for another season.
A native of Port Jervis, N.Y., Juncaj has already played for four schools in five years, and his 2021 season with Nassau Community College could potentially be restored. Razorbacks head coach Sam Pittman has already expressed his interest in bringing Juncaj back. “He’s a great kid and a really good player. He’s just been hurt most of this season,” Pittman said, making it clear that Juncaj would be a priority if granted eligibility.
Before this season, Juncaj was one of the most dominant pass rushers at the FCS level, recording 15.5 sacks in 2023. However, injuries, including a persistent knee issue, limited his effectiveness at Arkansas, where he tallied just 12 tackles and no sacks until the bowl game. But in his final collegiate game, Juncaj finally broke through, delivering his first sack at the FBS level.
“I’m so proud of my boy Anton,” said defensive tackle Cam Ball. “He’s been battling injuries since the Oklahoma State game, and for him to come out in his last game and give it everything he’s got, it’s amazing.”
Though Ball’s comments don’t officially confirm Juncaj’s future, they highlight the grit and determination that Juncaj has shown despite injury setbacks. With the Razorbacks now looking to strengthen their pass rush through the transfer portal, it remains to be seen if Juncaj’s future will include another season in Fayetteville. The window for portal entries closes Saturday, and Arkansas could be eyeing a crucial offseason boost.
