Jalen Dupree has officially declared his intention to enter the transfer portal at the end of the season, and Arkansas looks like the early frontrunner. You’ve got an in-state running back who dominated at Malvern High School, became Colorado State’s leading rusher as a redshirt freshman, and now wants a bigger role and a more stable situation. That lines up almost perfectly with what Arkansas needs right now at the position.
Forever grateful ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RFfxixe3P8
— Jalen Dupree (@JalenDupree02) November 13, 2025
Why Arkansas Leads for Jalen Dupree
Dupree is from Malvern, Arkansas, and he didn’t just have a solid high-school career, he put up 6,805 rushing yards, the third-most in state history. Dupree has already proven he can play at the top level of college football (yes, we mean the SEC) and Arkansas has leaned heavily into portal backs over the last few seasons.
The Razorbacks also have a clear need for a dependable, every-down runner. Dupree’s size, productivity, and physical style fit exactly what their offense wants. The move requires no cultural adjustment, small relocation challenges, and gives him a natural NIL fit at home.
Why Dupree Would Want Arkansas
Dupree left Colorado State after leading the team in rushing, but he was stuck in a four-man rotation and dealing with uncertainty after the head-coach change after the firing of Jay Norvell. Arkansas offers a clean upgrade in competition level with a genuine path to RB1 reps.
He’s coming off a 2025 season with 102 carries for 508 yards and 12 catches for 83 yards. He also posted a 100-yard performance at San Diego State and consistently produced strong early-down efficiency. Those are traits that translate to a Power 4 room immediately.
Other Teams That Could Show Interest
Kansas State and Boston College both offered him in high school, so they shouldn’t be surprising names to monitor. That said, neither looks like a natural top choice for him right now, and there’s no indication he’s prioritizing either.
Regional programs like Missouri or Memphis, or high-end G5 offenses needing a feature back, could also call. But none match Arkansas’ combination of opportunity, familiarity, and upside.
Projection for Jalen Dupree
Arkansas is positioned better than anyone else at this early stage. The fit is obvious, the role is clear, and the path to meaningful touches is there. Unless a major Power 4 program jumps in late, the Razorbacks should be viewed as the favorites to land Jalen Dupree from the portal.
