FAYETTEVILLE -- A text message popped up on Arkansas center Jonathan Luigs' cell phone Tuesday night, filling him in on the latest report in the Razorbacks' twisting and turning coaching search.

"Breaking news. Bobby Petrino," Luigs said describing the message, which was sent by his roommate before Arkansas stepped on the practice field.

Only, this time, it wasn't just a rumor. Luigs and the Razorbacks found out the former Atlanta Falcons coach, indeed, was heading back to college after spending less than one season in the NFL. Petrino resigned in Atlanta on Tuesday and was introduced as Arkansas' next coach during a news conference later that night.

So, after two weeks of wondering, Luigs said the Razorbacks exhaled.

"It let's a weight off your chest," he said. "It's kind of like we were in the dark for a little while. We didn't know who was going to be here in January. Obviously, our focus is on Missouri (and the Cotton Bowl), but I can speak for the team when I say it's always in the back of your mind."

For good reason.

Since Nutt announced his resignation on Nov. 26, a handful of coaches have been linked to the job.

Auburn's Tommy Tuberville was first to enter the conversation, but signed a contract extension. Clemson's Terry Bowden was next. Then came Wake Forest's Jim Grobe. And, of course, don't forget Arkansas interim coach Reggie Herring and Tulsa offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.

The coaching merry-go-round caused plenty of ribbing across the country, but in the end, a handful of national media members believe Petrino was a good get.

"He never won a national title at Louisville but he took Louisville from nothing to something," said Bruce Feldman, a senior writer for ESPN.com. "I could see him really getting that thing cranked up pretty good. Who knows? He can win the SEC there. They played for a league championship. I'm sure he could get them over the top. It's a tougher league now, but he's legit."

"He picked Arkansas and wanted back in," said Dennis Dodd, a college football writer for CBSSports.com. "I think it says a lot for Arkansas. I think they ended up with about as good a situation as they could, considering three people got (contract extensions) out of (the opening)."

Petrino was 3-10 in the NFL, but brings college head coaching experience and an innovative offense to the Hogs after leading Louisville to a 41-9 record from 2003-06. The Cardinals played in four bowls under Petrino, including an Orange Bowl berth in 2006. Louisville beat Wake Forest to finish 12-1.

Sophomore cornerback Jerell Norton, who found out about Petrino's hire during position meetings Tuesday night said the credentials are impressive.

Norton said many Razorbacks had hoped interim coach Reggie Herring would get the full-time job, but couldn't argue with athletic director Jeff Long's decision.

"We were open minded," Norton said. "We felt like our AD was going to bring in somebody that was best for us. When we had our team meeting (with Long and Chancellor John White), that was the focus, 'We're going to bring in who is best for you guys.' That's who they feel like was best."

On top of his Louisville experience, Petrino also worked in the SEC. He was Auburn's offensive coordinator under Tommy Tuberville in 2002.

Who he'll have to work with at Arkansas next season is not quite clear. Running back Darren McFadden was not available for comment after Tuesday's practice, but is expected to declare for the NFL Draft. Teammate Felix Jones could turn pro, too, but the junior said he won't announce a decision until the season ends.

Jones said Petrino's hiring will not impact his decision: "It's still up to me."

But Luigs, who was named the Rimington Trophy said he'll be around next season was looking forward to meeting Arkansas' new coach Tuesday.

"He definitely has the credentials," Luigs said. "He has the experience. I'm ready to welcome him to this family."