Who Will Step Up at Wide Receiver for the Arkansas Razorbacks in 2012?

The University of Arkansas will miss the production of last year's trio of Joe Adams, Jarius Wright and Greg Childs.  The three former Hog stars are off to try their luck in the 2012 NFL draft and the Razorbacks are looking for playmakers to fill their shoes.

Cobi Hamilton is the only receiver who has guaranteed himself a starting spot with his play on the field over the last three seasons. Head coach Bobby Petrino has stockpiled an impressive group of studs to battle for playing time in the 2012 season and beyond.

Juniors-to-be Maudrecus Humphrey and Jevontee Herndon have seen significant playing time in SEC action, and junior-college signee Demetrius Wilson is expected to provide immediate help. But behind them are a mostly unproven group of sophomores and freshmen.

Over the past two seasons, the Hogs have signed speedsters in 5'11", 180 lbs. Marquel Wade, 6'0" 195 lbs. Keonta Minor and  5'11", 170 lbs. Eric Hawkins. They also signed receivers with great size in 6'6" McKale Mekay, 6'3" D'Arthur Cowan, 6'4" Quinta Funderburke and 6'3" Davyon McKinney. 

Highly-recruited Keon Hatcher and the aforementioned junior-college transfer Wilson may have the best chance of all of the newcomers to break into the lineup over those who have been on campus since last season.

Kane Whitehurst played receiver in high school, as well as safety, and some believe that his best chance to get on the field might be in the defensive backfield.

Quarterback Tyler Wilson will have plenty of targets this year as the Razorbacks look to lead the SEC in passing for the fourth straight season.