- The Washington Times - Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Former Los Angeles Angels outfielder Monte Harrison is joining players 10 years his junior while donning pads at the University of Arkansas. The 28-year-old is walking on as a wide receiver for the Razorback football team, according to a school spokesperson.

Harrison was once a highly touted baseball prospect. His career on the diamond never panned out as he hit just .176 from 2020 to 2022 with the Miami Marlins and Angels.

Harrison originally committed to play football at Nebraska a decade ago. He pivoted to baseball when the Milwaukee Brewers offered him a $1.8 million signing bonus after the 2014 MLB draft.

Now, after bouncing among minor league affiliates with brief trips to the majors, Harrison is pursuing his dreams on the gridiron. The four-star recruit in the class of 2014 originally had offers from Iowa, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri and Michigan State.

Harrison’s decision to return to school caught the attention of college football fans on social media who, unsurprisingly, poked fun at his age.

“Brother needs to enter the workforce,” one fan wrote on X.

“His NIL deal is with AARP,” another X user joked.

The Razorbacks open the 2024 season on Aug. 29 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Harrison will be 29 years old when the season kicks off.

• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.

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