FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas has locked in its second commitment for the 2027 recruiting class, securing Lakeland (Fla.) quarterback Joaquin Kavouklis, a 6‑foot‑2, 190‑pound pocket passer. His announcement on July 3 makes him the Razorbacks’ second pledge, joining offensive lineman Bradley Sturdivant from Sheridan, who committed in January .
Kavouklis becomes the latest high-profile signal-caller to commit to Arkansas under the guidance of offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, whose reputation for developing quarterbacks has been a major draw . Kavouklis revealed it was the long-standing offer from Arkansas—and the bond with Petrino and his staff—that ultimately tipped the scales:
> “Arkansas was the first to offer me so we’ve had this relationship going for a very long time.”
He added, “You don’t have a lot of opportunities to be coached by offensive geniuses like coach Petrino… the amount of knowledge Coach Petrino knows and the guys that he has produced was a key factor in my commitment” .
After impressing during an April unofficial visit, it became clear Arkansas was emerging as his top choice over Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech. Rivals, HawgBeat, and 247Sports all reported that Arkansas led late in the process, with Petrino’s scheme being a major selling point .
A veteran of national schedules—first at Clearwater International Academy, then Tarpon Springs High, where he threw for 2,404 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2024—Kavouklis is preparing for his final two seasons at Lakeland High School . His polish and pocket awareness were key traits cited by analysts, who praised his decision-making and projection into a Petrino-style passing game .
Arkansas enters 2025 with Taylen Green as the expected starter, but Kavouklis’s addition promises competition in the QB room from day one . His early commitment gives him a significant head start in building familiarity with the offensive system and staff before arriving on campus.
In summary, the Razorbacks continue to build their 2027 class around scheme fit and strong relationships. Kavouklis’s pledge enhances depth at quarterback and demonstrates the allure of Arkansas’s offensive teachings and SEC platform. Arkansas now looks to leverage its momentum, recruitment infrastructure, and quarterback development reputation to close out the rest of the cycle.