24 Aug 2025 501 Football Team 2025: Garrett Pilkington – Benton

Benton Panthers senior offensive lineman Garrett Pilkington is a testament to dedication. Standing at 6-foot-2 and 270 pounds, he has been a starter for two years, growing up in a “football family” and playing since he was 3.

“Garrett is one of the hardest-working players on the field and in the weight room,” Benton Head Coach Brad Harris said. His offseason dedication led to gaining about 15 pounds and significantly increasing his lifts.

“As one of only two returning offensive linemen, I expect him to be our leader on the offensive line this year,” Harris said. “He does a good job setting the tempo of our practices each day and is always hustling and giving great effort.”

Pilkington’s favorite football memory is a cherished one: “Making my first start in the Salt Bowl because I grew up watching it and being a part of it was a special feeling.” This season, his goal is to earn All-State and “help the team as best as I can,” with a team goal being to “bring home a state championship.”

Off the field, Pilkington excels academically with a 4.2 GPA. He is deeply involved in his church youth group, recently returning from a mission trip this summer. He also leads in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. “He’s a very genuine young man,” Harris said.

In his free time, Pilkington enjoys golfing, hunting and fishing. He earned All-Conference honors last season and has received an offer to play football at Hendrix College.