Kody Walker given another year of eligibility

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The University of Arkansas has been informed by the NCAA and Southeastern Conference that Razorback running back Kody Walker has been granted a sixth year of eligibility based on medical hardship.

Walker will be re-classified as a junior for athletic competition. His clock has been extended and he is now eligible to compete in both the 2015 and 2016 football seasons.

“We are very excited to have Kody with us for an additional season,” said head coach Bret Bielema. “Adversity has defined him throughout his career and he has championed the moment. Every person on our staff and every player in our locker room is pulling for Kody to succeed and we expect him to be a major contributor to our football team these next two years.”

Walker suffered season-ending injuries during the first two seasons of his career. In 2011, he played in the first three games and rushed for five touchdowns. He also played in the first two games of the 2012 campaign and scored a touchdown in the opener against Jacksonville State before his season was cut short.

A native of Jefferson City, Mo., Walker had his most impressive year in 2014. Playing both running back and fullback, he gained 149 yards on 31 carries (4.8 avg.) and rushed for a touchdown. He has fully transitioned to running back this offseason and is expected to give the Razorbacks a third explosive option in the backfield.

The Razorbacks return 15 starters in 2015 and are a near-consensus preseason top 25 selection by the national media. The Arkansas home schedule is highlighted by 2013 national runner-up Auburn and Orange Bowl-participant Mississippi State. The home schedule concludes with two-time defending SEC East champion Missouri.

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