Ashton Bethel-Roman, 4-star wide receiver, commits to Arkansas; Class jumps from No. 29 to 18 nationally

The Arkansas Razorbacks have a top-25 recruiting class nationally and a new headliner. 

On Tuesday, Ridge Point (Texas) four-star wide receiver Ashton Bethel-Roman announced his commitment to Arkansas over offers from more than 20 other programs, highlighted by Arizona State, Nebraska, Oregon, TCU and Texas Tech: 

The 6-foot-1, 165-pound pass-catcher is rated the nation's No. 92 overall prospect and No. 18 wide receiver.

But the more noteworthy aspect of his recruitment is what his commitment does for Arkansas' recruiting class.

With Bethel-Roman in the fold, the Razorbacks' 2024 group jumps from No. 29 to No. 18 nationally, sliding one spot ahead of Miami and leapfrogging other notables Iowa, Alabama, Texas Tech and North Carolina. 

That ranking also puts the current class four spots ahead of last year's finish (No. 22), setting the table for a potential strong finish. 

Here's what 247Sports had to say about Bethel-Roman as prospect:

"Easy long-strider who generates sneaky top-end speed that reflects track prowess. Exceptionally smooth in movement patterns with an ease of motion that belies quick-twitch redirecting ability and acceleration. Dangerous in space thanks to combination of close-quarters agility and sudden linear explosion. Elite combine tester in agility categories (short shuttle, 3-cone). ...Erases off-coverage cushions in a hurry. Shows capability to get late separation to increase catch windows. Flashes impressive body control and adjustment acumen when needed. ...Wins contested throws, including red-zone targets, but can more consistently meet the ball as an apex high-pointer.  ... Junior year revealed immense progress as a receiver, along with encouraging athletic context via combine testing and track and field environments. One of the top receivers in Texas and potentially the country entering his senior campaign" 

Junior season highlights