From MLB to College Gridiron: The Unconventional Journey of Monte Harrison, Arkansas's 29-Year-Old Freshman
Life rarely offers second chances to pursue different dreams in sports. Monte Harrison is seizing such an opportunity, transitioning from professional baseball to college football with the Arkansas Razorbacks. A former four-star recruit from the 2014 class, Harrison initially committed to Nebraska for football, but his baseball talent led him down a different path.
A Promising Baseball Career
The possibility of Harrison playing baseball professionally was always present. After the Milwaukee Brewers selected him in the second round of the 2014 MLB draft, presenting him with a $1.8 million bonus, Harrison chose baseball, putting his football career on hold. This opportunity was too significant to pass up for the then-teenager.
After progressing through the minor league system, including playing for the Single-A Carolina Mudcats in 2017, he was traded to the Miami Marlins. There, he debuted for the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, the Marlins' Triple-A team. His performance impressed the Miami front office, leading to his call-up to the majors.
Harrison made his MLB debut against the Baltimore Orioles in August 2020. In his eleventh game, he hit his first home run. His MLB stint concluded with two home runs and six RBIs. Following his time in the majors, he was sent back down in 2021 and later played for the Los Angeles Angels. However, his baseball career ended in 2023.
A New Chapter: College Football at Arkansas
After a decade in baseball, Harrison decided to pursue the second half of his athletic dream: college football. He chose to walk-on at Arkansas and earn his degree. Despite turning 29, Harrison has four years of eligibility because he never enrolled in college after high school, which would have started his clock.
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Harrison had initially chosen Nebraska over Arkansas, Missouri, and Michigan in 2014. Now, he is with the Razorbacks, with a chance to play this season. Quarterback Taylen Green has noted Harrison's potential since his arrival this summer. Green highlighted Harrison's motor, noting that he never refuses any task from the coaches and had one of the largest player loads in a scrimmage, demonstrating his dedication and stamina.
Harrison was a highly-regarded prospect in 2014, ranked as the fifth overall prospect from Missouri. His baseball earnings allow him to walk-on at Arkansas. He could potentially earn a scholarship next year if he performs well on special teams or in a backup role. His size and strength could make him a valuable asset for the Razorbacks once he fully adjusts to football.
Reports from Arkansas practice indicate Harrison has worked with the first-team. Backup quarterback Malachi Singleton acknowledges that while Harrison may be rusty, his potential is evident, mirroring the coaches' assessment from years ago. Singleton described Harrison as a fast, 6-3, 225-230 pound player with excellent hands, capable of making any catch.
Comparisons and Expectations
Harrison's story has captured attention, though some question his potential impact. While his athleticism is undeniable, some doubt whether he will see significant playing time, suggesting that meaningful snaps would only occur if Arkansas's receiving corps is struggling. Realistic expectations might be six or seven catches for around 50 yards and a touchdown.
Harrison's motivations for returning to football are also questioned. Some speculate he may simply want to keep his competitive spirit alive. Comparisons have been drawn to other athletes who returned to college sports after professional careers, such as D'vone McClure, who played baseball before becoming an Arkansas linebacker. McClure finished with 26 tackles in the 2018 season. Harrison is older, more mature, and financially secure compared to McClure.
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The hope is that Harrison is not trying to capitalize on NIL opportunities. His presence is seen as a positive for Arkansas, providing valuable PR.
Recent Developments
Monte Harrison joined Arkansas as a walk-on in 2023 after a decade in professional baseball. He spent the year reacclimating to football, focusing on conditioning and adapting to the college game.
In recent scrimmages, Harrison scored a 63-yard touchdown against the first-team defense and added 45- and 70-yard scores against the second team. Coach Pittman expressed his support for Harrison, acknowledging the difficulty of returning to college football at 29 after a professional baseball career.
Pittman likened Harrison to Andrew Armstrong, highlighting his emergence as a reliable player. Offensive coordinator Petrino praised Harrison's physical attributes, including his height, weight, speed, and vertical jump. He also noted Harrison's receiving yards in a recent scrimmage and his ability to make impressive catches and runs.
Teammates have also been impressed by Harrison. Carmona noted Harrison's maturity and performance on the field.
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Harrison's story is reminiscent of Chris Weinke and Brandon Weeden, who also returned to college football after professional sports careers.
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