Linebacker Jaden Yates Emerging as Key Defensive Force Ahead of Ole Miss–Arkansas Showdown
OXFORD, Miss. – Ole Miss (2-0) will take on the Arkansas Razorbacks (2-0) this Saturday in hopes of earning their second SEC win of the 2025 season.
Earlier this week, we spoke with Rebel linebacker Jaden Yates, the Marshall transfer who’s recorded the second-most tackles on the team with 14. While adjusting from the Sun Belt to the SEC, the completion of spring and fall camps under Pete Golding has allowed Yates to feel calm and collected on the field during game time.
“Me personally, I’d say I am definitely getting more comfortable by the day… at the end of the day, ball is ball.“
Jaden Yates on playing in the SEC
Beat Arkansas 😤📲 pic.twitter.com/OGVHloxa6P
— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) September 10, 2025
Yates also elaborated on another aspect of what makes him comfortable on the field and that is playing with teammate Jaylon Braxton, the brother of Marshall quarterback Braylon Braxton. Sharing that bond, Yates and Jaylon Braxton have developed a strong relationship during their time in Oxford.
“Me and J-Brax… I’ve known about him for a minute now, we can’t wait to get him back. He’s going to be a big piece for our defense.”
– Yates on Jaylon Braxton
Yates also praised linebacker TJ Dottery for his leadership and understanding of the Rebel defense. Through two games, the duo leads the team in tackles with a combined 29.
“That’s my guy. He’s been a big help… him being here for a year or two now, he knows the playbook and the scheme. It’s been a big help, whenever I may not be 100% certain or confident, I can always look to my left or right and know he’s going to back me up.”
– Yates on playing alongside TJ Dottery
Though they’ve been successful, the challenge will become even greater this weekend going up against an Arkansas team with 30+ transfers and, of course, second-year quarterback Taylen Green. Up to this point, Green has scored 10 touchdowns and been a vital part of the success of the rushing attack in Fayetteville.
“He’s an athlete. I don’t know how many touchdowns and yards he’s accounted for, but it’s a hefty amount… it’ll be important for us in our game plan to make sure everybody’s doing their job to make sure we keep him as contained as possible.”
– Yates on Arkansas QB Taylen Green
“He’s an athlete” Jaden Yates on Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green.
— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) September 9, 2025
Next up
Ole Miss and Arkansas will kick off at 6 pm in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium for the annual stripe-out game. You can watch at home on ESPN. Hotty Toddy, and go Rebs!
