Amari Odom Competes for Starting QB Role at Syracuse

Former Kennesaw State standout joins talented QB room in search of new opportunity

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:52pm

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Amari Odom, a talented quarterback with a proven track record of success, has transferred to Syracuse University to compete for the starting job. Odom's journey has taken him from Wofford to Kennesaw State, where he led the team to a conference championship, and now to Syracuse, where he will battle with highly-touted recruit Malachi Nelson for the top spot on the depth chart.

Why it matters

Odom's decision to leave a starting role at Kennesaw State and join the quarterback competition at Syracuse speaks to his confidence and desire to challenge himself at the highest level. This move highlights Odom's level-up mentality and his willingness to take risks in pursuit of growth and opportunity.

The details

At Kennesaw State, Odom established himself as a talented dual-threat quarterback, earning all-conference honors and leading the team to a Conference USA championship. Now, he joins a Syracuse program that is looking to rebound after the departure of starting QB Steve Angeli due to injury. Odom will compete with Malachi Nelson, a former top recruit, for the starting job, creating an intriguing quarterback battle that will be a key storyline for the Orange this season.

  • Odom transferred to Syracuse in the offseason following the 2025 season.
  • Spring practice at Syracuse concluded with the starting QB role still up for grabs.

The players

Amari Odom

A talented quarterback who has transferred to Syracuse after successful stints at Wofford and Kennesaw State, where he led the team to a conference championship.

Malachi Nelson

A highly-touted quarterback recruit who joined the Syracuse program just a week after Odom's commitment, creating a dynamic competition for the starting job.

DeWayne Odom

Amari Odom's father, who emphasized the importance of finding the right program fit for his son rather than just chasing the biggest name or financial package.

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What they’re saying

“Amari is the best quarterback in our school's history. His audibility and leadership skills are unmatched.”

— Kennesaw State Coach

What’s next

As Syracuse enters the new season, the battle for the starting quarterback role between Amari Odom and Malachi Nelson will be a key storyline to follow. The coaches will evaluate the two players throughout fall camp before making a decision on the starter.

The takeaway

Amari Odom's journey to Syracuse showcases his relentless pursuit of growth and his willingness to take calculated risks in order to elevate his game. His level-up mentality and proven track record of success make him a compelling addition to the Syracuse quarterback room, as he competes for the starting job against a highly-touted recruit.