The summer of Fran Brown continues in the 315. Just days after landing five-star Calvin Russell, the Orange picked up another commit in Cameron Hairston-Taylor, a 2026 defensive back out of Virgina. And if you like speed, this is the commit for you. His nickname? Zoom.
Syracuse had made the top five for Hariston-Taylor less than a month ago. The three-star made a list of Appalachian State, South Carolina, Louisville and Virginia Tech.
But the Orange, who were the first official visit for Hariston-Taylor in early June, made enough of an impact to land the two-way star, who also plays wide receiver. He’s currently rated as the 16th best player in Virginia in his class.
While football is the main sport for Hariston-Taylor, he’s also become a track star at Patrick Henry High School. A two-time indoor state champion in the 55 meter dash, he’s truly earned the zoom nickname. While a hamstring strain sideline Hariston-Taylor this past spring, his X profile shows the athlete has been back at work this summer..
And it may seem like a ton of credit goes to Fran Brown, it’s for good reason. In an interview with WFXR news in Virginia, the first thing that Hairston-Taylor credited his decision for was “Coach Fran.”
This isn’t new rhetoric. Time after time, recruits for the Orange have credited the Orange headman with why they are choosing SU. When Syracuse first hired Brown, recruiting was what he was known for. And while he’s proven to be an effective in-game coach as well, his recruiting skills still shine in Syracuse.
The 2026 class continues to grow for SU. The Orange now have 28 2026s committed, staying a top 25 team in the recruiting rankings for that class, according to 247sports.
