FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas is reportedly pursuing Ryan Silverfield as its next head football coach, hoping to replicate the success he has achieved at Memphis. This move comes after a two-month coaching search following the dismissal of Sam Pittman, which was prompted by a disappointing 2-10 season for the Razorbacks.
At 45, Silverfield has established himself as a capable leader during his six seasons at Memphis, where he accumulated a strong record of 50-25. Under his guidance, the Tigers posted an 8-4 record this year, notably defeating Arkansas in a matchup earlier in the season. Silverfield’s tenure has been marked by consistent postseason eligibility, as he has led Memphis to at least six wins in each season. He also celebrated back-to-back impressive campaigns in 2023 and 2024, achieving a combined 21-5 record, though he has yet to secure a top finish in the American Conference standings.
Silverfield has a rich history in coaching, beginning his career in 2000 at Hampden-Sydney. He joined Memphis in 2016 as an offensive line coach and has broadened his coaching experience across high school, college programs, and professional NFL teams, having worked with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. He played a significant role in Memphis earning three consecutive American Athletic Conference West Division titles from 2017-2019 and helped steer the team to four consecutive bowl games in that span.
The Razorbacks are looking to build a foundation of consistent winning similar to that of Silverfield’s Memphis teams, especially after their last three seasons resulted in a dismal 13-24 record overall, including a troubling 4-20 in the SEC.
One of Silverfield’s primary responsibilities, should he accept the position, will be to retain the young talent that remains on the roster. Despite the team’s struggles, Arkansas is home to promising offensive players like linemen Kobe Branham, Caden Kitler, and E’Marion Harris, all of whom had significant starting experience this season.
This potential hiring represents a strategic shift for Arkansas, aiming to rekindle its competitive edge and foster a promising future under Silverfield’s leadership.