Syracuse University has made waves in the recruiting scene by securing the commitment of top punter Jimmy Gregg from Morgantown, West Virginia, for the Class of 2026. This notable addition comes as a highlight for the Syracuse football program amidst news regarding their recruiting challenges in other positions.
On a less favorable note, the Orange seem to be losing traction with four-star defensive tackle James Johnson from Miami Northwestern. Johnson, who initially visited Syracuse during the team’s spring practice on March 29, had been slated for an official visit on May 30 but instead opted to check out Georgia. His recent decision to bypass another visit to Syracuse in favor of Texas is raising concerns among fans and the coaching staff.
The staff under Fran Brown has focused on enhancing recruitment efforts in Florida, which has resulted in interest from Johnson and other prospects. His teammate, Calvin Russell, and Cocoa safety C.J. Hester are also key targets for the program. Hester is expected to announce his commitment on July 1, while Russell, a priority recruit after Syracuse’s recent loss of Messiah Hampton to Oregon, will make his announcement just a few days later on July 5.
This mixture of successes and challenges highlights the volatility of college football recruiting, where momentum can shift rapidly. While Syracuse celebrates its success in securing a top punter, the loss of a potential star on the defensive line illustrates the ongoing competition among programs for top talent. Hope remains as they continue their efforts to attract other promising recruits in the weeks ahead.