The linebacking corps is the heart of any elite defense and the Orange will add yet another player to an already strong group of linebackers.¬† Troy Henderson Jr., a 6’1″, 215-pound outside linebacker, verbally committed to Syracuse in July but will make his official visit on January 23rd.
The Orange was far from Henderson’s only option as he received offers from Cincinnati, Buffalo and most notably Nebraska.  Henderson chose Syracuse after coming to campus for an unofficial visit last spring.  In a conversation with OrangeFizz, Henderson said he chose Syracuse because it is the place that can “help [him] grow into a man”.
Henderson may have the opportunity to contribute to the Syracuse football program right away.  With linebackers Cameron Lynch and Dyshawn Davis both graduating, there is plenty of opportunity for a young linebacker to step into a key role.
There will be plenty of competition to replace the two leading tacklers as Syracuse returns eight linebackers from 2014, but Henderson like his chances saying he sees “an opportunity to play early” here in Syracuse.
Henderson, like several other members of the recruiting class of 2015, brings a track record of winning.  He won an Ohio state championship at St. Edward’s High School as he recorded ten tackles, a sack and broke up a pass in his final high school game.
The Lakewood, Ohio product said that his last year in high school was “the best year of my life. I’ll always be a state champ.”  He finished his season as captain with 171 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
He brings more than just past successes.  He brings the attitude that college athletes should have.  He has set a goal for himself to achieve a 3.5 GPA or higher and he wants to “contribute to the team on or off the field.”
 
Henderson is looking forward to “starting a new chapter in life” and “joining the family” here at Syracuse.  The Orange faithful are sure to welcome him with open arms as he joins the stingy Orange defense.
Posted:  Logan Grossman
