Arkansas football continues to shape its future with the addition of Chanhassen (Minn.) standout Kade Bush. The 6-foot-5, 220-pound tight end made his commitment official on Thursday, selecting the Razorbacks over Power Five contenders Kansas State and Washington State. His pledge adds to Arkansas’ 2026 recruiting class, which now boasts 11 commitments and holds the No. 26 national ranking, per On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.
Rapidly Rising Prospect with a Unique Skill Set
Bush’s recruitment has surged in recent months, with schools such as Utah, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa State, and Northwestern showing interest. However, Arkansas secured his commitment after extending an offer in January and hosting him for an impactful spring visit.
Ranked as the No. 68 tight end and the No. 8 player in Minnesota for the 2026 cycle, Bush blends size, agility, and toughness. His high school coach, Cullen Nelson, describes him as “a tough kid who makes plays with the ball in his hands,” lauding his “great ball skills, physicality, and blocking ability.”
Bush has already proven his clutch factor, making a state championship-winning catch in overtime as a sophomore. His resilience shone when he played through a dislocated shoulder in the semifinals, still managing to score.
Familiar Pipeline: Arkansas’ Connection to Chanhassen
Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman is well-acquainted with Bush’s high school program, which has produced multiple FBS athletes, including former Razorback and current Detroit Lions lineman Frank Ragnow. Chanhassen has sent four players to the FBS level since 2014, with another signing to FCS South Dakota State last year.
On the field, Bush’s versatility stands out. Whether lining up as a traditional tight end, an H-Back, or even a boundary receiver, he brings dynamic playmaking ability. His deceptive speed allows him to elude defenders, while his physicality makes him an asset in the blocking game. Though currently on the leaner side at 220 pounds, his fearless playing style suggests he will adapt well to the college level.
Development Under a Proven Mentor
Arkansas tight ends coach Morgan Turner has a history of grooming elite talent, having coached NFL standouts such as Dalton Schultz, Zach Ertz, and Austin Hooper. The Razorbacks continue to evolve their tight end role into a hybrid position, demanding athleticism, blocking prowess, and receiving ability.
Bush’s background in lacrosse further enhances his agility, endurance, and hand-eye coordination-qualities that seamlessly translate to football. His commitment keeps Arkansas at No. 11 nationally in the 2026 recruiting cycle, according to 247Sports’ team composite rankings. Currently ranked No. 966 overall, No. 46 among tight ends, and No. 6 in Minnesota, Bush projects as a high-ceiling prospect who could make a significant impact in Fayetteville.
