Scott Starzyk, the nation’s top-ranked kicker according to Kohl’s Kicking, officially committed to the University of Arkansas on Wednesday during the NCAA early signing period. Starzyk’s decision to join the Razorbacks came after he decommitted from the University of Iowa, marking a significant change in his recruiting journey.
The 5-foot-10, 160-pound athlete from The Woodlands, Texas, initially pledged to the Iowa Hawkeyes in July. However, his recruitment took a turn after an official visit to Arkansas for the highly anticipated Texas game on November 16. Just over a week later, on November 25, he reopened his recruitment, ultimately announcing his commitment to the Razorbacks the following day, November 26.
When asked about his decision, Starzyk emphasized two key factors that influenced his choice: proximity to home and the allure of competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), widely regarded as the pinnacle of college football. “For one, it’s closer to home and it’s in the SEC,” Starzyk shared. He also expressed his readiness to embrace the competitive atmosphere, noting that the kicker position at Arkansas will be open following the current season. “The thought is I’m going in and compete. It’s open, the spot is going to be open after this year,” he added.
The Razorbacks’ ability to provide a blend of geographical convenience and a chance to showcase his skills on one of the biggest stages in college football clearly resonated with Starzyk. This commitment highlights Arkansas’s ongoing efforts to secure top-tier talent and solidify its future roster with athletes eager to make an immediate impact. Starzyk’s decision not only bolsters the team’s special teams unit but also serves as a testament to the program’s growing appeal among elite recruits.
