Syracuse freshman wide receiver Calvin Russell III, one of the nation’s best incoming freshman players, will miss significant time, if not the entire 2026 season.
The 6-foot-5-inch wide out from Opa Locka, Florida sustained a lower-leg injury in practice earlier this week which will sideline him for an indefinite period of time.
Russell was ranked as the No. 4 wide receiver and No. 36 overall prospect in the class of 2026. As a senior last fall, he recorded 47 catches for 742 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. He signed with the Orange late last year and being a two-sport athlete, was part of the Men’s basketball program during their ACC Tournament run.
Though the injury is deemed significant, Syracuse head coach Fran Brown did not rule him out to play late in the season.
“Calvin Russell III suffered an injury in practice that will cause him to miss an indefinite period of time. I’m confident Calvin will return stronger because of our culture, commitment to our players and the relationship Calvin, his family and I have. Calvin, best believe Orange Nation’s got your back!”
Syracuse Looks To Flip Things Around In 2026
Fran Brown will be entering his third season as Syracuse‘s football this fall. In his two seasons as head coach, he’s led the Orange to a 13-12 record, a win above.500.
In 2024, he led his team to an impressive 10-3 record, including 5-3 in the conference and were even ranked in the AP Top 25 Poll. The Orange defeated the Washington State Cougars 52-35 in the 2024 Holiday Bowl.
Following an impressive campaign in 2024, the Orange had a down year in 2025, finishing with a 3-9 record, including a 1-7 conference record. The Orange did not play in a bowl game this past season.
As Syracuse embarks on the 2026 season, they’ll be without its top recruit for much of the season with Calvin Russell III being sidelined to start the season.
Read More:
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