Syracuse 2-sport Star Faces Lengthy Achilles Recovery

Russell III underwent successful surgery, targeting mid-to-late season return.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:37am

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Syracuse Orange football's highly sought-after freshman wide receiver Calvin Russell III suffered a torn Achilles during spring practice and underwent successful surgery. Doctors have provided a positive prognosis, with an expected recovery timeline that could allow Russell to return in late October or early November.

Why it matters

Russell III was one of the highest-rated recruits in Syracuse history and a two-sport athlete, playing both football and basketball. His return timeline will be closely watched as the Orange aim to build on a promising 2025 season.

The details

Russell sustained the non-contact Achilles injury while running in Monday's practice. He underwent surgery on Wednesday performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Martin O'Malley, who has treated high-profile Achilles injuries for athletes like Jayson Tatum and Kevin Durant. Initial projections indicate Russell could return in late October or early November, though Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli, who suffered the same injury last September, is still regaining mobility more than six months later.

  • On Monday, Russell III suffered the Achilles injury during spring practice.
  • On Wednesday, Russell III underwent successful surgery performed by Dr. Martin O'Malley.
  • Doctors have provided a positive prognosis, with an expected recovery timeline of several months.

The players

Calvin Russell III

A highly touted freshman wide receiver and two-sport athlete at Syracuse University, ranked No. 62 overall in the 2026 recruiting class.

Fran Brown

The head coach of the Syracuse Orange football team.

Dr. Martin O'Malley

A renowned orthopedic surgeon who has performed Achilles surgery on high-profile athletes like Jayson Tatum and Kevin Durant.

Steve Angeli

The Syracuse Orange quarterback who suffered the same Achilles injury in late September 2025 and is still regaining mobility more than six months later.

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What they’re saying

“Initial projections for Russell's return vary, but all point toward a mid-to-late season comeback. Brown indicated the earliest possible return could come in late October/early November.”

— Fran Brown, Head Coach, Syracuse Orange Football

What’s next

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The takeaway

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