Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson has made a decision.
He’s staying at Arkansas for his senior season.
Wilson issued a statement through the Arkansas media relations department a few minutes ago, explaining his decision to remain with the Razorbacks. He joins running back Knile Davis and receiver Cobi Hamilton as Arkansas players who have said publicly they will remain with the Razorbacks.
“I have decided to stay at Arkansas for the 2012 season because I am extremely excited for what this team has the opportunity to accomplish and to finish earning my degree,” Wilson said in the statement. “After the feedback I received, the decision was difficult to make. Ultimately, the chance to complete my academics and play one more season as a Razorback were compelling reasons for me to remain in Fayetteville.”
Wilson led the Razorbacks to an 11-2 record in his first season as a starter. He also set a handful of school records, including his 510-yard passing performance in the come-from-behind win against Texas A&M.
Wilson finished the season completing a school-record 277 of 438 passes for 3,638 yards with 24 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. He declined to join a draft class led by Stanford’s Andrew Luck and Baylor’s Robert Griffin III although some rated Wilson as high as No. 3 on the draft board if he left.
“This past year was great for us with 11 wins and a top-five finish and we want to build on that,” Wilson said in the statement. “The group of players we have returning has high expectations and wants to work hard to compete for championships. Although my goal is to play in the NFL, I believe I can benefit greatly from another year of working with Coach (Bobby) Petrino and Coach Paul Petrino.
“I am excited to be able to spend one more season at a university where the leadership shows a tremendous amount of support and the passion of the fans is the best in the country.”
— Robbie Neiswanger • Arkansas News Bureau
