Denver Kirkland to Arkansas: Razorbacks Land 4-Star OT Recruit

Offensive tackle prospect Denver Kirkland, who hails from Miami's powerhouse Booker T. Washington High School (Fla.), has made his commitment to Arkansas official this morning on ESPNU.

Kirkland had been dead-set on in-state schools, with Florida State and the hometown Hurricanes far and away his two most desired destinations of various top schools. He is the No. 9 prospect at his position in the country and the 145th-rated prospect overall, according to 247Sports' composite rankings. 

Regardless of any ranking, his upside rivals that of any of his 2013 classmates.

At 6'5", 333 pounds, Kirkland already has the massive size to play for a major college program like the Arkansas, and will simply have to work on fortifying his technique. Of course, that's easier said than done for some big men, but Kirkland has the talent to get it done.

With immense power and an ability to get down the field in a hurry for his physique, it's feasible that Kirkland could convert nicely as a guard at the collegiate level. Armed with that sort of versatility, Kirkland may be able to get on the field rather quickly at Arkansas.

Although he definitely needs to work on getting out of his stance in pass protection, the dynamic ability Kirkland could bring to running plays out of spread formations makes him a valuable commodity.

As with any big-time program, there will be plenty of competition awaiting Kirkland. But as long as the Arkansas staff develops him properly, Kirkland has a chance to be a special player for the Razorbacks.