Sam Pittman Vows to Safeguard Brandon Burlsworth Legacy Despite Looming Rule Changes
Fayetteville, Ark., April 24, 2025 — Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman has issued a firm declaration that he will “navigate any forthcoming regulations” in order to keep the story of former walk-on turned third-round NFL draft pick Brandon Burlsworth at the heart of the Razorbacks program—though, for now, he insists no rules need bending.
Pittman made his remarks Wednesday during a press conference at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, reflecting on the university’s recent unveiling of a life-size statue of Burlsworth outside the team facilities. The statue, honoring the Fayetteville native’s journey from overlooked walk-on to standout starter and eventual third-round draft selection, stands as a symbol of perseverance and grit.
“Brandon’s story is what Arkansas football is built on,” Pittman said. “If the NCAA or any other governing body tries to limit how we honor him—his name, his likeness, his impact—then we’ll find a way to make sure future Razorbacks know who he was. For now, though, I don’t see any rule that gets in the way of celebrating one of our own.”
Burlsworth’s rise through the program under former coach Houston Nutt—and his subsequent success at the professional level—has long served as motivational fuel for Arkansas players. In recent months, college athletics regulators have considered tightening restrictions on retired players’ names and likenesses appearing on campus facilities or in promotional materials. Some institutions have already begun pruning tributes to former athletes amid concerns over name, image and likeness (NIL) compliance.
University athletic director Hunter Yurachek praised Pittman’s stance, noting that Arkansas has proactively consulted compliance staff to ensure that the Burlsworth statue, annual scholarship dinner, and in-season honors all fall within current guidelines.
“We don’t want to break rules or create gray areas,” Yurachek said. “That’s why Sam’s comment about ‘navigating’ regulations is so important. It signals to everyone—our fans, our donors, our compliance officers—that we will do this right, but we will not remove or diminish a legacy that defines our program.”
For now, NCAA spokespersons have not announced any immediate changes impacting retired-player recognitions. That means fans can continue to attend the annual Brandon Burlsworth Foundation dinner, see his image emblazoned in locker rooms, and hear his name invoked in team meetings—without fear of penalties.
Arkansas officials say they will monitor any proposed policy shifts closely, with Pittman leading the charge to advocate for clear allowances that protect institutional history and honor the achievements of former student-athletes like Burlsworth.