Recruiting Update: Derek Brinker

The recruiting process for Springdale Har-Ber running back Derek Brinker was slowed this spring by an appendectomy surgery, but he's regaining his strength and should start drawing serious attention soon. The surgery caused him to miss team camps where college recruiters would have had a chance to evaluate Brinker's abilities. "I visited Mississippi State and Tulsa. That's about it so far," Brinker said. "But there are a lot of schools sending me stuff." Indeed, Brinker figures to be ine of the top backs in the league this season ad his versatility shines in the Wildcats' Spread formations, including the Pistol. So far, most of the in-state schools and several from the Ivy League are showing interest. "I'm interested in any team that's interested in me," said Bronker, noting that he was raised an Arkansas Razorback fan. Last season, the 6-foot, 210-pounder rushed for more than 1,000 yards in helping Har-Ber reach the state championship game. Brinker runs the 40-yard dash in 4.6 seconds, bench presses 315 pounds, squats 465 and has a 31-inch vertical.