Elinus Noel III sets decision date, talks Hogs

FAYETTEVILLE — Texas Southern defensive tackle Elinus Noel III has concluded his Arkansas visit and now has one left before announcing his decision.

Noel, 6-2, 330, had 42 tackles, 19 solo, seven for loss, 3.5 sacks and one quarterback hurry in 2023. Following the trip to Arkansas, Noel talked about how the official visit on Friday went.

“The visit was great,” Noel said. “Coaches showed me around and I had a great time. Definitely way more interested that before the visit. After the visit definitely peaked my interest. Like I told Coach (Sam Pittman) I will have an answer for him on Sunday.”

Arkansas has no defensive tackles in this class. Does the opportunity to obviously see extensive action appeal to you?

“That definitely appeals to be me having that opportunity to go out there and play in the SEC and dominate,” Noel said.

Noel talked about what he feels he brings to the table at defensive tackle.

“I’m a dominator and leader,” Noel said. “I’m going to get on the field. Just my presence, they are going to feel my presence. Just being able to talk on the field and allow guys to know I’m here with them.”

The NFL Draft started Thursday and will conclude today. Seeing that and all the picks from the SEC makes Noel feel playing in that league would help him to get to next level.

“I definitely take that into consideration because obviously the next step is to go to the league,” Noel said. “I’m trying to find the best situation where I can go and take that next step. I definitely feel like Arkansas can do that for me.”

Arkansas has three commitments in the latest portal opening. They still have seven available scholarships.

Rodney Hill, RB, 5-10, 190, Florida State

Anthony Switzer, S, 6-0, 210, Utah State

Larry Worth, LB, 6-4, 220, Jacksonville State