FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas continues to leave a strong impression on top underclassmen prospects nationwide following its recent individual positional camps.

One standout from the latest camp is 2027 offensive lineman Ben Hale of Nashville’s Christ Presbyterian Academy. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound lineman is gaining attention thanks to his dominant play — tallying over 60 pancake blocks and allowing zero sacks or tackles for loss during his sophomore season in 2024.

Although Hale currently holds offers from Middle Tennessee State and UNLV, his recruiting profile is growing. He’s drawn interest from Louisville and participated in camps at Georgia Tech, Indiana, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, and Appalachian State. A notable tie to the Razorbacks is Hale’s trainer, former NFL center James Stone, who played under Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman at Tennessee.

“I’ve been an Arkansas fan for as long as I can remember,” Hale said. “Since visiting this spring and again last Wednesday, I’ve learned so much more about the program. Coach Pittman is one of a kind.”

Hale holds Pittman and offensive line coach Eric Mateos in high regard, calling them two of the best developers of offensive line talent in college football. The two coaches are working together again for the first time since their stint at Arkansas from 2013–2015.

The Razorbacks’ offensive line showed notable improvement late last season, giving up only five sacks across the final three games, including their Liberty Bowl matchup against Texas Tech.

Hale also praised the Razorbacks’ intense coaching style, particularly that of Mateos.

“Since my last visit in April and again during camp, Coach Mateos really stood out,” Hale said. “He pushes you to give everything you’ve got. He wants his linemen to play nasty and with aggression. I’ve built a strong relationship with him this offseason.”

Beyond the coaching staff, Arkansas’ state-of-the-art facilities left a lasting impression on Hale.

“The facilities are unlike anything else,” he said. “The effort and investment they put into player development is second to none in the SEC. Their gameday locker room especially stood out — it’s unreal how nice it is and how much they value their team.”

As the recruiting process continues, Hale says Arkansas is currently at the top of his list, citing his strong connection with the coaching staff and his belief in the direction of the program.

Arkansas has already started building its 2027 class, securing a commitment earlier this year from in-state offensive lineman Bradley Sturdivant of Sheridan