Syracuse Football Showcases Talent at Spring Practice

Offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon, quarterback Steve Angeli, and wide receiver Calvin Russell III discuss team's progress

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:52am

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Syracuse football held its second spring practice on Saturday, with offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon, quarterback Steve Angeli, and wide receiver Calvin Russell III addressing the media afterwards. Angeli provided an update on his recovery from an Achilles injury, while Russell impressed early despite just joining the team from the basketball squad. The Orange also have a deep and experienced running back room, with several new additions vying for playing time.

Why it matters

Syracuse is looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season, and the progress shown by key players like Angeli and Russell during spring practice could be a positive sign for the team's outlook in 2026. The competition at quarterback and running back also suggests the Orange have bolstered their depth at important positions.

The details

Quarterback Steve Angeli said he is 'progressing really well' from the Achilles injury that ended his 2025 season early. He'll face stiff competition for the starting job, however, with the addition of several new signal-callers via the transfer portal. Wide receiver Calvin Russell III, who just joined the team from the basketball squad, has already impressed the coaching staff with his athleticism and skills. On the ground game, offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon highlighted the team's deep and experienced running back room, which features a mix of returning players and new transfers.

  • Syracuse football held its second spring practice on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Steve Angeli

The Syracuse quarterback provided an update on his recovery from an Achilles injury that ended his 2025 season early.

Calvin Russell III

The wide receiver joined the Syracuse football team this spring after playing basketball, and has already impressed the coaching staff with his athleticism and skills.

Jeff Nixon

The Syracuse offensive coordinator discussed the team's deep and experienced running back room, which features a mix of returning players and new transfers.

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What they’re saying

“I just want to let you guys know I'm doing great. I'm progressing really well. I could go right now if I wanted to. Coach Fran (Brown) and everyone's been taking care of me. When it's time to play real ball and everything matters, I'll be good to go.”

— Steve Angeli, Quarterback

“He's been good just coming off the basketball court. He wasn't in those meetings we had all year, but he's been impressive so far. (He's) a big target and he has nice hands, so he's done a really nice job so far. We're really excited about him.”

— Jeff Nixon, Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

The competition at quarterback and running back will continue to play out over the remainder of spring practice and into fall camp as Syracuse looks to solidify its starting lineup for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Syracuse's spring practice has provided encouraging signs for the team's outlook, with key players like quarterback Steve Angeli making progress in their recovery and new additions like wide receiver Calvin Russell III already making an impact. The depth and experience in the running back room also bodes well for the Orange as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.