There’s no getting around the disappointment that everybody in and around the Arkansas football program continues to feel for Knile Davis.

The Hogs’ star running back is out for the season after injuring his ankle two weeks ago.

That disappointment, though, hasn’t filtered onto the practice field. And if anything, other offensive playmakers have picked up their games.

Offensive coordinator Garrick McGee really likes what he’s seen from the receivers, which is not surprising considering seniors Greg Childs, Joe Adams and Jarius Wright are three of the best in the SEC. They combined for 17 touchdown catches last season.

But what’s really been encouraging to McGee is seeing Childs get back to his old self this week in practice after missing the final part of last season with a patellar tendon injury.

“Greg’s back,” McGee said. “The last couple of days, he’s been as fast as we’ve seen him. He still has his vertical (leap). He still has those big, giant hands, and he’s still really competitive.”

McGee said junior receiver Cobi Hamilton and freshman receiver Marquel Wade have also made their presence felt.

“Cobi has had the best training camp he’s had with his personality and his attitude and his commitment to playing the position,” McGee said. “Marquel has come on strong and made a lot of big plays. He’s definitely become one of our go-to guys, so we’re really fortunate at that position. We’ve landed some good recruits, and they’ve been developed.”

Junior Tyler Wilson is still the guy to beat at quarterback and has had a big preseason camp, but the Hogs want to be able to also utilize sophomore Brandon Mitchell's athleticism.

“Brandon is one of the best athletes we have on the team,” McGee said. “What I always talk about is: Who’s going to be in the game when it’s fourth down and the game’s on the line? That’s the guy we’re looking for. You can’t play two quarterbacks on the last play of the game when the pressure’s on.

“We feel like you pick a quarterback, and he carries the team. Now, could you see multiple guys out there? Sure. There could be different packages for different guys.”