Arkansas Business

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

Arkansas Athletic Director Jeff Long has seen his profile raise across the country over the last few months.

Long was praised for his handling of the employment review and firing of football coach Bobby Petrino. And he was named earlier this year as a finalist for a national athletic director of the year award.

Could that lead to a new job for Long, now in his fourth year at the school?

A Northwest Arkansas television station reports Stanford has shown interest in Long for its open athletic director’s position. Bob Bowlsby left Stanford to become the Big 12 commissioner, leaving a vacancy. KNWA said Long has not responded to inquires.

Long said via text message he was attending his daughter’s high school graduation when asked if he had a response to the report. Long did not respond to a follow-up text.

A university source told ArkansasSports360.com there had been no “official contact” between Long and Stanford. According to his contract Long, or anyone working on his behalf, would have to notify UA Chancellor Dave Gearhart in writing of a decision to look into other employment.

Long is making $450,000 annually with incentives that can pay an additional $450,000. His contract runs through 2015. There is a clause included that states he must pay back a pro-rated portion of his salary for any amount left on the original terms of his deal, which ends June 30, 2013.