Syracuse football coach Fran Brown landed his biggest recruiting win yet over Fourth of July weekend. Four-star wide receiver Calvin Russell committed to the Orange, becoming the highest-ranked recruit in program history.
Russell ranks as the No. 28 recruit in the 2026 class according to ESPN.
The 6-foot-6 receiver from Miami Northwestern High School chose Syracuse over Michigan, Florida State, Oregon, LSU and Alabama. His commitment caps Brown’s first recruiting cycle as head coach with the program’s most talented incoming class.
Russell caught 39 passes for 704 yards and 13 touchdowns during his junior season.
The commitment isn’t binding yet. Russell could change his mind and reopen his recruitment before signing day next summer. But his pledge shows the momentum Brown has built after Syracuse’s breakthrough 2024 season.
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Russell won’t just play football at Syracuse. The receiver is expected to compete for a spot on the Orange basketball team as well.
Russell averaged 21 points and 7 rebounds per game last season for Miami Northwestern’s basketball team. His ability to play both sports made him an even more attractive recruit for Syracuse coaches.
Brown’s first season as head coach produced a 10-3 record and a Holiday Bowl victory. The Orange recorded just their third season this century with at least 10 wins and a bowl game victory.
The success on the field has translated directly to recruiting. Brown and his staff have assembled what many consider the most talented recruiting classes in program history.
Russell’s commitment gives Syracuse a big-bodied target who can win contested catches downfield. His combination of size and athleticism fits perfectly with the offense Brown wants to run.
The 2025 season may present challenges for Syracuse as they replace key players from their successful 2024 campaign. But Russell’s commitment suggests Brown is building something special for the future in the ACC.
