Note to Our Readers: The following story was sourced directly and in its entirety from Mr. Glenn Parrish, Director of Communications, Booneville School District. Mr. Parrish is a RNN Sports contributor and we thank him for bringing this story to our readers.
Bearcat quarterback Peyton Tatum signed a letter of intent to play football for Arkansas Tech this morning in a ceremony held before classmates at Booneville High School.
Tatum had announced his decision to accept an offer from Tech on social media last week but delayed a ceremony due to inclement weather cancelling school on national signing day.
“For the past six years PT has been a huge part of our football program,” Bearcat head coach Doc Crowley said before Tatum picked up the pen. “He’s been a tremendous leader for us on the field, in the weight room and has done some very outstanding things in the classroom.”
Crowley also noted Tatum was chosen All Conference in 2022 and led the Bearcats to a 10th state title game appearance.
Tatum ran for a career high in that game and he directed six 90-plus yard drives last season.
“I know as he continues at Arkansas Tech that he’s going to continue to be very successful at everything he does,” Crowley added. “I know I speak on behalf of all these coaches (when I say) we’re excited to watch you grow. We’re excited to watch you represent this great community and great school district.”
Tatum was joined on stage for photos with senior players, coaches, family, as well as Ross Kent, who helped him with weight training.
Tatum said he chose Tech over Hendrix due to academics – he is his class valedictorian.
“They have a lot better (mechanical) engineering program,” Tatum said.
But regarding football Tatum expects to be used on the defensive side of the ball.
“Not really sure where yet. Maybe like a rover/safety, a D-back, or a linebacker,” he said.
During his Bearcat career Tatum recorded 80 tackles and had two interceptions.
Tatum going to Tech is also a family tradition. A paternal grandfather started the fisheries program at Tech, his father (Todd) played two seasons at Tech, his mother (BJHS teacher Melissa) graduated from Tech in 1999, his maternal grandparents are both Tech alums (1968 and 1975), and his brother (Dalton) will graduate from Tech in May. There are also uncles and other cousins who have been on the Russellville campus.
