Syracuse Football 2026 Transfer Portal Tracker: Key Departures and Additions

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The Syracuse Orange football program is staring down a pretty big transformation for the 2026 season. The last couple of years have been a wild ride—after an awesome 2024 where they finished 10-3, things fell apart in 2025 with a rough 3-9 record.

Now, as they try to bounce back, the transfer portal feels more important than ever. Who comes and goes could totally reshape the roster and, honestly, the whole vibe of the team.

Table of Contents

Key Departures from Syracuse

The transfer portal window runs from January 2nd to January 16th, and already, several players have made it clear they’re leaving Syracuse. Some are veterans; others are young guys who just want a new shot somewhere else.

Notable Players Leaving

LB Caden Brown – He’s a versatile linebacker and played a big role on defense.
LB Fatim Diggs – Another mainstay at linebacker, and his exit leaves a pretty big gap.
WR Jaylan Hornsby – Showed flashes at wide receiver but is off to find something new.
RB Malachi James – Loads of potential at running back, and the backfield will miss him.
DB Ibn McDaniels – Made his mark in the secondary.
LB Derek McDonald – Adds to the linebacker exodus.
WR Emanuel Ross – Another receiver looking for a different opportunity.
DE Chase Simmons – Losing him at defensive end hurts the pass rush.
DB Kaylib Singleton – Another defensive back on his way out.
LS Ethan Stangle – The long snapper leaves a specialized role to fill.
QB Jakhari Williams – He’s searching for a place where he can lead an offense.

Incoming Transfers to Syracuse

But it’s not just about the departures—Syracuse is hustling to bring in new talent too. Some of these transfers could end up being critical pieces next season.

Notable Players Joining

QB Steve Angeli – A promising quarterback who could shake things up right away.
OL Austin Collins – He’ll help shore up the offensive line and protect whoever’s under center.
WR Johntay Cook – This guy has the tools to become a top target in the passing game.

The Impact of Transfers on Syracuse’s 2026 Season

Bringing in new faces and saying goodbye to key players is going to change everything about the 2026 squad. The real test will be how quickly the new guys settle in and gel with the rest of the team.

Challenges and Opportunities

Head coach Fran Brown and his staff have their work cut out for them. They need to get the new and returning players on the same page, fast.

The 2025 season showed just how much depth and resilience matter, especially when injuries hit. Adding players like Steve Angeli and Johntay Cook could give the offense a fresh look, and Austin Collins should help steady the line.

Looking Ahead: Expectations for 2026

Syracuse is heading into 2026 with one big goal: bounce back from last year’s mess. Success is probably going to hinge on how the new transfers adjust and whether the coaches can patch up the weak spots from 2025.

Key Areas to Watch

Quarterback Position – Steve Angeli is stepping in, and let’s be honest, all eyes will be on him. How he handles the offense could set the tone for the whole season.
Defensive Adjustments – With so many linebackers and defensive backs gone, the defense needs a serious reset. They’ll have to get creative with new strategies and player development.
Team Chemistry – Getting everyone to click, both on and off the field, is going to be a huge focus this offseason.

Conclusion

The 2026 season looks like a mixed bag for Syracuse football. There are obvious challenges ahead, but also some real chances to shake things up.

With so many roster changes from the transfer portal, adapting fast is going to matter. Can the team mesh all this new talent together? That’s the big question, and fans are definitely watching closely.

If you’re hungry for more updates or just want to keep tabs on the latest moves, check out the Syracuse Transfer Portal Tracker.

Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.

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