The Orange only has two defensive ends returning to the program for spring practice, sophomores Jake Pickard and Kenny Carter. As a result, Syracuse is pursuing two defensive ends seeking a transfer from their current schools, but both players come with baggage. We’re just going to have to trust SU’s new staff.
Gabe Sherrod
Sherrod is interested in SU by way of the graduate transfer. The Delaware State defensive lineman finished second in tackles for loss in the FCS last season and is receiving interest from Arkansas, Duke, and Maryland in addition to Syracuse.
It seems like a perfect fit, but there is one issue. Sherrod plead guilty to one count of conspiracy in the third degree and one count of theft in May of 2014, per the Post Standard. This came after a group of Delaware State players stole laptops and videogames from a Delaware University dorm room. Sherrod recently told the Post Standard that he, “didn’t do anything.”
This is certainly a talking point, but based off of conversations with those familiar with Dino Babers, SU’s new coach is a no nonsense guy. If the Orange staff feels comfortable bringing in Sherrod after he visits the weekend of 2/26 then that judgment deserves to be trusted.
Justin Stewart
Syracuse’s coaching staff has also looked at some junior college players on the defensive line. Golden West College’s Justin Stewart is at the top of the list.
Stewart told the Fizz the reason he’s playing JUCO is because he did not receive any offers out of high school. He also mentioned that he’s receiving other interest from New Mexico State and Iowa State. If Stewart did transfer he could play in the fall and would have one year of eligibility remaining after his first season.
The concern here is that Stewart may have some trouble qualifying academically. He needs everything to go well in his second semester at Golden West to ensure he’d be able to make the move to Syracuse.
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Posted: Connor Morrissette
