Four Syracuse Players Drafted Into the NFL, Several More Sign Deals

CUSE football fans, it looks like things are turning around for the program. Their were four players picked in the 2025 NFL Draft with more signing with NFL teams afterwards.

Oronde Gadsden II Kicks Things Off

Tight end Oronde Gadsden II was the first Syracuse player to hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft, getting selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fifth round with the 165th overall pick. Gadsden didn’t just play tight end during his time at Syracuse he completely rewrote the record books.

He finished his college career ranked fifth all-time in school history for receptions and had the top two single-season performances ever by a Syracuse tight end. With over 1,900 receiving yards, he smashed the previous records and set a new standard at his position.

Kyle McCord Is Philly Bound

Next up was quarterback Kyle McCord, who spent just one season with the Orange after transferring from Ohio State and he absolutely lit it up. McCord led the entire nation with 4,779 passing yards and set new ACC records along with many Syracuse program records.

The Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles grabbed him in the sixth round of the draft. That was the same round that Tom Brady was drafted in 2000, so he could be a thorn in the side of NFC opponents for years to come. More good news for Philly fans, the Eagles are McCord’s hometown team, making this a dream come true.

LeQuint Allen Joins the Jags

Running back LeQuint Allen got picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round. Allen leaves behind a legendary career with the Orange, highlighted by back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons for a total of 2,359 rushing yards. This puts him just behind Syracuse legend and Heisman winner Ernie Davis on the all-time list. .

Fadil Diggs Heads to New Orleans

Defensive end Fadil Diggs rounded out Syracuse’s draft party, heading to New Orleans in the seventh round. A Texas A&M transfer, Diggs made a big impact in his only season with the Orange. He racked up 14 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and was a team captain, proving himself as a dominant force on defense for the Saints

Other Orange Players That Are NFL-Bound!

But wait — there’s more! Several Syracuse players signed as undrafted free agents right after the draft ended. Defensive back Clarence Lewis signed with the Tennessee Titans after a strong season locking down receivers. Linebacker Justin Barron and defensive back Alijah Clark both signed with the Dallas Cowboys, giving Big D two major defensive pickups.

Wide receiver Jackson Meeks, who posted the second-most receiving yards in the ACC last season, signed with the Detroit Lions. Offensive lineman Savion Washington and linebacker Marlowe Wax are heading to Los Angeles to join Oronde Gadsden II with the Chargers. Wax leaves Syracuse second only to Dwight Freeney in career forced fumbles and tackles for loss.

A Draft to Remember

Syracuse football head coach Fran Brown changed the CUSE culture when he arrived on campus. It began by getting McCord to transfer from Ohio State and Browns energy and enthusiasm LIT UP the Orange fan base with renewed positivity. The future is looking bright as they continue to get NFL talent to the JMA Wireless Dome.