Arkansas lands pledge from versatile linebacker Brad Spence

Arkansas dipped into the state of Texas for the second time in less than a week to land a commitment from Klein (Texas) Forest three-star outside linebacker Brad Spence.

Spence, who recently dropped a top three that featured the Razorbacks alongside Cal and Texas, took official visits to Arkansas and Cal during the month of June as he took the next steps in his recruitment.

However, it was his official visit to Fayetteville that was the one that stood out as he was able to connect with Sam Pittman while also helping his younger brother, Trent, earn an offer from the Razorbacks.

“It was a great visit,” Spence told HawgBeat.com. “I like the people around here, I like the players. It was a great experience. You gotta love Coach Pitt. I enjoyed myself out here this weekend.”

Spence's recruiting rise began at the conclusion of his junior season when schools such as Utah, Texas and Northwestern threw an offer in the mix. Texas was viewed as an early favorite, but upon Arkansas offering and establishing a relationship through the spring, the Razorbacks made a move that eventually culminated in a commitment on Tuesday.

A tackling machine for Klein Forest last season, Spence totaled 72 tackles including 11 for loss and 1.5 sacks. The Houston-area product also racked up six pass breakups on the year.

At 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, Spence is ranked as the No. 30 outside linebacker in the country for the class of 2023, according to Rivals.

A second-level defender that has shown a lot of versatility in his high school career, Spence has the potential to be utilized as an inside linebacker, outside linebacker or defensive end at the next level.

His frame potential would allow him to bulk up into a pass-rusher role, but his athleticism and ability to cover sideline-to-sideline would allow him to play off the ball as well. His adjustment to the college game is expected to take a little bit of time, but Spence's floor remains high due to his athleticism and open-field tackling ability.

Spence's potential is probably best fit at an inside linebacker role where he can get in space and use his athleticism to either cover pass-catchers or to fly downhill to blow up plays in the backfield.