Arkansas Coach Bret Bielema has hired Kansas running backs coach and recruiting coordinator Reggie Mitchell to replace Jemal Singleton. Thayer Evans from Sports Illustrated first reported the hiring.

“I got to know Reggie during my time in the Big Ten and he was known as a dominant recruiter,” said Bielema, “Over his career he’s recruited and developed elite running backs and athletes that had great college careers and advanced to the NFL. I’m excited about the opportunity to have Coach Mitchell join our staff.”

Arkansas and its head coach each have a rich tradition at the running back position. ESPN recently recognized Arkansas as “Running Back U” for its stream of outstanding backs. In 2015, Alex Collins added to that legacy by becoming only the third player in Southeastern Conference history to earn three-straight 1,000 yard season to start his career joining fellow Razorback Darren McFadden and Georgia’s Herschel Walker. In addition, Coach Bielema has had at least one 1,000-yard rusher in each of his 10 seasons as a head coach.

“I’m excited to be a Razorback and be a part of Coach Bielema’s program,” said Mitchell. “Arkansas is a special place with a ton of tradition, especially at the running back positon. I know there’s a talented group of running backs there and I can’t wait to get there a keep that tradition going.”

Mitchell coached at Kansas the past six years and is known for his recruiting ability and allowing the Jayhawks to get into the fertile Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Kansas currently has three commitments for the Class of 2017 and all are from the Metroplex.



Under Mitchell, Kansas running back James Sims completed his Jayhawk career ranked third on the all-time rushing chart at KU with 3.592 yards. He became the first player in Kansas history to rush for back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons (2012-13).

He also coached the Jayhawks under Glen Mason from 1988-96. Other coaching stops includes Minnesota, Michigan State, Illinois, Central Michigan, Ferris State and Michigan.

Mitchell was a four-year starter at running back for Central Michigan from 1978-81.