Jeff Long: I am not interested in leaving the University of Arkansas

Jeff Long

University of Arkansas Athletic Director Jeff Long released a statement Friday morning addressing reports that he is a candidate for the vacant seat at Stanford University.

The full statement

Although I do not consider it appropriate to discuss the personnel searches of other universities or colleges, I feel it’s important to address recent speculation about me and the athletics director position at another prestigious institution. Although I can’t be responsible for what others are saying or thinking, I do know that I am not interested in leaving the University of Arkansas. My interest and commitment continues to be providing leadership to the University of Arkansas and to Razorback athletics at this critical time in our program’s history.

A television station in Fayetteville reported Thursday that Long has been contacted about the job, recently vacated when former Stanford AD Bob Bowlsby left the university to become the commissioner of the Big 12 conference.

Long has seen a rise in national attention lately, and has been praised by many around the country for his handling of the Bobby Petrino scandal that led to the former Hog head football coach’s firing last month.