Former No. 1 QB Prospect Seeks Fresh Start at Syracuse

Malachi Nelson transfers to the Orange after tumultuous college career at USC, Boise State, and UTEP

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Malachi Nelson, once a highly touted five-star quarterback prospect, is looking to revive his college football career at Syracuse after stints at USC, Boise State, and UTEP. The 6-foot-3, 193-pound signal-caller has faced a 'dramatic college career' filled with transfers and competition for starting jobs. Now at his fourth school in as many seasons, Nelson will compete with incumbent starter Steve Angeli for the Orange's QB1 role.

Why it matters

Nelson's journey highlights the volatility of the modern college football landscape, where top recruits can struggle to find consistent playing time and often turn to the transfer portal in search of better opportunities. Syracuse is hoping Nelson can provide a boost to their offense after a disappointing 3-9 season in 2025.

The details

Nelson was a five-star recruit when he committed to USC in 2023, but with Caleb Williams and Miller Moss ahead of him on the depth chart, he transferred to Boise State in 2024. He saw limited action as a backup for the Broncos before moving on to UTEP in 2025, where he started six games and passed for 1,163 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Now at Syracuse, Nelson will compete with returning starter Steve Angeli, who had a solid 2025 campaign before suffering an Achilles injury.

  • Nelson committed to USC as a five-star recruit in 2023.
  • He transferred to Boise State in 2024.
  • Nelson spent the 2025 season as the starting QB at UTEP.
  • Nelson entered the transfer portal again and committed to Syracuse for the 2026 season.

The players

Malachi Nelson

A former five-star quarterback prospect who has transferred to four different schools in as many college football seasons, seeking consistent playing time and a chance to revive his career.

Steve Angeli

The incumbent starting quarterback at Syracuse, who had a strong 2025 season before suffering an Achilles injury late in the year.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Nelson has undergone one of the most dramatic college careers in America, going from a five-star prospect at USC to a UTEP backup. Instead of resting on his laurels, Nelson is betting on himself by transferring to Syracuse to compete for reps under coach Fran Brown. It won't be easy with incumbent Steve Angeli returning for another season.”

— Shehan Jeyarajah, CBS Sports Writer (CBS Sports)

What’s next

Nelson will compete with Steve Angeli for the starting quarterback job at Syracuse during spring and fall practices. The Orange coaching staff will evaluate the competition and name a starter prior to the 2026 season opener.

The takeaway

Malachi Nelson's journey is a cautionary tale for highly touted quarterback recruits, as the modern transfer portal landscape can lead to unpredictable and tumultuous college careers. However, his willingness to keep fighting for opportunities shows his determination, and Syracuse is giving him a chance to prove himself once again at the Power Five level.