Earlier today, we touched on a report that had Stanford reaching out to Arkansas athletic director Jeff Long regarding its vacancy at the same position.
Predictably, Long is attempting to extinguish the speculation that’s been growing over the past 24 hours.
In a statement released through the university, Long, while not mentioning the Cardinal by name, stated unequivocally that he has no interest in leaving for another job.
“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,” Long’s statement began. “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.”
Stanford has been searching for a new athletic director since Bob Bowlsby agreed to become the new commissioner of the Big 12. West Virginia’s Oliver Luck was also reportedly a candidate for the job at his son’s alma mater, but has since assured officials he’s remaining with the Mountaineers.