It’s been nearly a week since wide receiver Trebor Pena entered the transfer portal. The captain left because he wasn’t satisfied with the amount of money he’d earn through NIL and wanted more.
With the situation and outcome still unfolding and Syracuse trying to figure out how to best replace Pena’s production, a long offseason is in store.
Pena had a breakout year last season with 941 receiving yards on 84 receptions–both career highs. He led the Orange in receptions and trailed only Jackson Meeks in receiving yards. Pena also led SU with nine touchdown catches.
So, no Pena. What does that mean for Syracuse?
The biggest issue is that all of last season’s top three wideouts are gone, including Pena. Jackson Meeks declared for the NFL Draft after leading SU in receiving yards in his senior year. Oronde Gadsden also entered the draft after a strong career with Syracuse.
That leaves Darrell Gill Jr., Umari Hatcher, and Justus Ross-Simmons. These three will likely be the go-to options next year for LSU transfer quarterback Rickie Collins. He’s in for a treat based on the movement that SU has experienced already, and it’s only April.
Gill showed signs of promise, finishing fourth on the team in receiving yards last season. He’ll be entering his junior year.
Outside of Gill, the experienced receivers are Hatcher and Ross-Simmons, both of whom will be seniors.
Pena would’ve definitely been the WR1 heading into the summer, but now Syracuse is left with three receivers who had flashes last year. Much of that success was thanks to Kyle McCord and the versatility of receiving options he created in the pocket.
That makes this season a concern. No Pena. No McCord. Is Syracuse in a rut offensively?
It might be time to raise a caution flag on this Syracuse squad.
