Cornerback a big pickup

Nate Dalton
Nate Dalton

Arkansas received a big oral commitment -- in more ways than one -- when highly regarded cornerback Nate Dalton of Houston Cypress Falls announced Thursday on Twitter that he intends to sign with the Razorbacks.

Dalton, 6-3, 195, is considered big for a cornerback, and his size and athleticism could give him an opportunity for playing time as a freshman.

He took an official visit to Fayetteville last weekend. Dalton chose the Razorbacks over Oklahoma and Michigan. He also was sought by Kentucky, Utah, Washington State and others.

"I thought it would be a great fit for me," said Dalton, who played quarterback before moving to the defensive backfield his senior season. "I got along with the coaching staff and with the players, and I also loved the community. When I was down there I felt like it was another place to call home."

Arkansas defensive backs coach Clay Jennings was his lead recruiter and a big reason why he committed.

"Coach Jennings is just himself," Dalton said. "He loves coaching and developing young men to be something special in life and also in getting to the next level."

Dalton said just knowing that he could sit down and talk to Jennings during difficult times added to his comfort level.

"I'll be spending four years up there so I wanted more of a father figure than a coach, and that's what he brought to the table," Dalton said. "Most coaches don't do that. They're all about business."

Dalton, a native of Baton Rouge, was hosted by cornerback Henre Toliver, a fellow Louisianian. He said Coach Bret Bielema and the family atmosphere within the football program weighed into his decision.

"He's an unselfish coach," Dalton said. "He's not just in it for the business or money or fame or whatever you want to call it,. He's just himself. That's what I want to be around. I don't want to be around anyone that they're there just because it's just a job. It's more about building relationships and always being there for one another."

Dalton said he is confident Jennings will get the best out of him.

"I feel like I'll be coached by one of the best," Dalton said. "Whatever they need me to do, I'll do it."

Dalton is Arkansas' 11th oral commitment. Eight players in the class have already enrolled in school, giving the Hogs 18 prospects in the 2015 class. Oral commitments are not binding.

Sports on 01/23/2015

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