Published Apr 21, 2023
Arkansas adds versatile in-state athlete Courtney Crutchfield
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Nick Harris  •  Rivals.com
National Recruiting Analyst
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@RivalsNick

Arkansas continues its hot streak on Friday as Pine Bluff (Ark.) four-star athlete Courtney Crutchfield has announced his commitment to the Razorbacks over a handful of SEC contenders.

Crutchfield, who earned four-star status earlier this offseason, has showed potential to play at both wide receiver and safety during his high school career as Sam Pittman will have two-way flexibility as soon as the in-state athlete steps on campus.

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Crutchfield took multiple visits this offseason and had SEC programs such as LSU, Ole Miss and Auburn high on his list, but the Razorbacks were able to shut the door before he took any official visits to keep him in-state.

As a junior for the Zebras, Crutchfield was a force on both sides of the ball as he hauled in 17 receptions for 517 yards and nine touchdowns (a whopping 30.4 yards per reception for the non-math nerds out there) offensively while accounting for 30 tackles, three forced fumbles and two interceptions defensively.

Crutchfield's highest ceiling is most likely seen in the secondary where he covers a big range as a safety with his quick twitch, speed and secondary IQ. However, his speed and movement could also lead him towards a bright future on the offensive side as well.

The commitment gives Arkansas its second four-star pledge of the day after this morning's commitment from four-star cornerback Jaden Allen. The Hogs have the ability to add a third later this afternoon from four-star defensive end Charleston Collins, who has been linked to Crutchfield throughout his recruitment. Collins will announce his decision at 2:45 p.m. CST on social media.

At 6-foot-3, 176 pounds, Crutchfield is ranked as the No. 4 recruit from the state of Arkansas and the No. 24 athlete prospect in the country.