Stephen Dix Jr. chooses Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas has landed former Florida State and Marshall linebacker Stephen Dix Jr.

Dix, 6-2, 237, chose Arkansas after taking an official visit on Monday and Tuesday. He started his career at Florida State before transferring to Marshall. In 2023, Dix had 67 tackles, 31 solo, seven for loss, two sacks and one fumble recovery. Travis Williams, Arkansas’ defensive coordinator and linebackers coach played a big role in his decision.

“Definitely because of Coach T-Will,” Dix said. “I think he is awesome coach. Seeing him how he is I think he would help me grow not only as a player, but as a man. He loves ball just like I love ball. Help me get to where I want to go. Anything I need help with he said he will do anything to help me out that I need.”

Dix came out of Orlando (Fla.) Dr. Phillips High School as a highly decorated recruit. He had over 20 scholarship offers as a four-star recruit. He had some visits then and first time in portal, but Arkansas wowed him.

“This is probably one of the best visits I’ve been on in all of the recruiting I’ve ever had,” Dix said. “Really love the family here. Love the energy I get from the coaches. Just had an awesome time. I’m very excited about here.”

Arkansas has a talented, but young and inexperienced linebacker room. That is where Dix feels he will be a big addition.

“Absolutely coming in I think I would have the opportunity to impact especially with this group,” Dix said. “Definitely been looking at them over the course of being here. A talented group without a doubt. I would just add a little more experience. I think what they have is awesome I would just add a little to it overall.”

Dix said he can bench 365 and squat 650. He is the second linebacker added to the Class of 2024 in the April segment of the transfer portal. They landed Georgia’s Xavian Sorey Jr. at midterm and then Jacksonville State’s Larry Worth, 6-4, 220, signed recently.