As transfer portal opens, what does SU football depth chart look like?

Published: Friday, January 2, 2026 at 11:00 am

Syracuse Football Faces Roster Reshuffle as Transfer Portal Opens

The Syracuse University football program is bracing for significant roster changes as the NCAA transfer portal officially opened. The program anticipates at least 27 players will enter the portal over the next two weeks, creating new areas of need for the Orange.

Key departures include running back Yasin Willis and wide receivers Darrell Gill Jr. and Johntay Cook. These losses highlight the need for reinforcements at those positions. Additionally, the team has seen experienced depth depart from linebacker and cornerback positions.

Despite the expected departures, the team still has a significant number of potential returners. Approximately 82 players are believed to be on scholarship, either full or partial, out of a possible 105 scholarships.

The team's biggest areas of need remain consistent with the end of the previous season: defensive line, safety, offensive line, tight end, running back, receiver, and quarterback depth.

The current depth chart reveals the players who have not expressed interest in the portal. The chart includes: three quarterbacks, five running backs, five tight ends, thirteen wide receivers, eighteen offensive linemen, eleven defensive linemen, four edge rushers, six linebackers, eight cornerbacks, five safeties, one punter, and three kickers.

BNN's Perspective:

The transfer portal has become a significant factor in college football roster management. While the departures will undoubtedly create challenges, the program has the opportunity to address its needs and potentially improve its overall talent pool. The key will be how effectively the coaching staff can recruit and integrate new players.

Keywords: Syracuse football, transfer portal, roster, departures, needs, depth chart, scholarships, running back, wide receiver, defensive line, safety, offensive line, tight end, quarterback, linebacker, cornerback

Full Story