Evan Goodwin has great bond with Eric Mateos

FAYETTEVILLE — Pulaski Academy Class of 2026 four-star offensive tackle Evan Goodwin was among the top campers at Arkansas on Wednesday.

Goodwin, 6-7, 315, is one of the state’s top prospects holding 16 offers including from many of the nation’s powers. Goodwin talked about the camping experience on Wednesday including working with Eric Mateos.

“The camp went pretty well today,” Goodwin said. “I really enjoyed the competition. There was a lot of really great competition I didn’t see last time. I was really happy to see those guys. I thought Coach Mateos’ coaching was fantastic as usual. His drills are always relative to what we’re doing at camp.”

Last year at the camp, Goodwin didn’t have an offer to Arkansas. That changed on March 30 during an unofficial visit to Fayetteville. Anything different this year since you already have the offer?

“I don’t think it’s any different,” Goodwin said. “You are still going up against the same level of competition and trying to do your best. You are still just trying to improve yourself.”

Goodwin has been busy this summer visiting schools and camping. He will be at LSU on Friday.

“Arkansas, Wisconsin, Texas A&M, TCU, OU, SMU and Notre Dame,” Goodwin said. “Not planned right now, but I’m hopefully going to OSU on the 28th.”

Goodwin is impressed with Mateos who would be his coach if he attends Arkansas.

“I met Coach Mateos when he was over at Baylor in my ninth-grade year,” Goodwin said. “Coach Mateos has been one of my biggest supporters since eighth grade. He was one of the first persons who showed interest in me.”

Goodwin also talked about what the offer from Arkansas in late March meant to him.

“It wasn’t the offer itself it was the way they presented it to me,” Goodwin said. “It was me, my mom and my grandfather when we walked in. We were talking to Coach (Sam) Pittman. He was talking to my family like that was his own grandfather or his own daughter. I really appreciated that.

“Yes, the offer was fantastic, but I just loved the way Coach Pittman and Coach Mateos treated my family.”

Goodwin also listed the factors that will be important for him when he decides on a college.

“Mostly academic programs and who is winning,” Goodwin said. “I love to win.”

Goodwin also said he’s excited with Pulaski Academy’s move to Class 7A and getting to go against bigger linemen.