Syracuse football is no longer in contention for the nation’s No. 1-ranked defensive lineman, marking a shift in the Orange’s 2025 recruiting strategy as top-tier prospects begin narrowing their choices. The program had been in the mix for several elite defensive talents, including five-star lineman Elijah Griffin, widely regarded as the top defensive line recruit in the class. However, recent developments indicate that Griffin is now focused on a handful of national powerhouses, and Syracuse is no longer among them.
This development, while a setback, comes as no surprise given the stiff competition for elite talent. Programs like Georgia, Alabama, and USC have long been viewed as the frontrunners for Griffin’s commitment. Syracuse, despite making early inroads, simply doesn’t have the same recruiting pull or championship pedigree to keep pace with college football’s elite in high-stakes battles for five-star prospects.
Still, the Orange remain active in pursuing other high-profile targets. Four-star defensive linemen such as Maxwell Roy and Zion Grady are expected to announce their decisions in the coming weeks, and Syracuse remains in contention for at least one of them. Head coach Fran Brown and his staff have worked hard to elevate the program’s recruiting presence, particularly in talent-rich regions along the East Coast.
Syracuse’s ability to land a four-star defensive lineman would still mark a significant win for a program in transition. Brown’s emphasis on culture, player development, and a reinvigorated defense could appeal to recruits looking for early playing time and a chance to help build something from the ground up.
While missing out on Griffin is a disappointment, Syracuse’s recruiting outlook remains cautiously optimistic as key targets inch closer to their final decisions. The next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the Orange’s 2025
class.
