With less than a week until the start of the 2024 season for Syracuse football, much of the focus has been on the new for the Orange. A new coaching staff, a new quarterback and lots of other new players are leading high expectations for Syracuse this year.
But what about the returners? Plenty of talent returns for SU and will play an imperative role if Syracuse wants to get back to a bowl. Here are the top returns for Syracuse this season.
The obvious
Four of Syracuse’s top players regardless of year are all returners who made the decision to try things out with Fran Brown. Oronde Gadsden leads the group. The redshirt junior is back after missing much of the 2023 season with injury. But if the tight end is anything like he was two years ago (969 receiving yards), he will make a huge impact.
Also on offense is LeQuint Allen. While younger than the other players on this list (a true junior), Allen showed last year that he can compete with the top running backs in the ACC. The running back was second-team All-ACC in 2023 and will once again lead the rushing attack. With a quarterback in Kyle McCord who has seen problems on the ground in the past, Allen’s role is even more important.
The other two top returners are on the defensive side of the ball. Senior Marlowe Wax has been the definition of consistency for the Orange. The linebacker has played in all 49 games during his time with Syracuse and has consistently been a tackle leader.
And then there’s senior defensive back Justin Barron. Another player who has played in 49 games, Barron was a top player in 2023 while fighting through injury. The experience of Wax and Barron is imperative for SU’s defense this year.
Some of the other big names
Alijah Clark has been a steady presence for Syracuse the past two years. Last year at safety, Clark had 65 tackles. In a secondary with plenty of change this year, Clark represents some experience.
Even on special teams SU has returning help. Brady Denaburg returns as the main kicker for Syracuse. The junior only missed one PAT in 2023 and was off the mark on field goals within 50 yards just three times.
