Kyle McCord’s 2024 campaign for the Syracuse Orange has been nothing short of an improvement. The senior quarterback, who transferred from the Ohio State Buckeyes after three seasons, finished the season with 4,326 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and a string of performances that surprised many fans.
He led the nation in passing yards and finished 10th in the Heisman Trophy race, further elevating and showcasing his jump from his previous seasons. On Thursday, he teased the possibility of returning for one more go around, but could McCord return to the Orange in 2025?
Kyle McCord Teases Syracuse Future
Under his leadership, the Orange experienced a resurgence, competing at a high level in the ACC and finishing with a 9-3 record. But as the season winds down, the question remains: Could McCord return to Syracuse for the 2025 season?
At first glance, the answer seems straightforward. McCord is a senior and would typically be expected to declare for the NFL Draft. However, when asked about the possibility of a waiver from the NCAA to play another year at Syracuse, McCord remained cryptic.
“I can’t confirm or deny. We’ll see how it all shakes out,” he replied on Cuse Sports Talk.
For McCord, the decision to return to Syracuse in 2025 would hinge on several factors.
First, there’s the potential to elevate his draft stock further. While his 2024 season was impressive, another year of production could see him rise up draft boards even further. Additionally, Syracuse’s program appears to be trending upward, and a fifth year could give McCord a chance to lead the team to even greater heights.
There’s also the matter of unfinished business. While Syracuse made significant strides this season, they fell short of an ACC Championship Game appearance, and McCord’s competitive nature might make the chance of one more shot at glory too tempting to pass up.
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Financially, the NIL era has changed the calculus for players like McCord. Top-tier college athletes can now earn substantial income while remaining in school, which may reduce the urgency to turn pro.
If McCord’s NIL opportunities at Syracuse are lucrative enough, they could provide a compelling reason to stay. The local fan base’s strong support and his growing marketability in Central New York add to the argument for remaining at Syracuse for another year.
On the other hand, McCord may feel that he’s accomplished all he can at the collegiate level. His 2024 performance has already put him on the radar of NFL scouts, and there’s always the risk of injury if he chooses to return for another season.
For a player with professional aspirations, the lure of the NFL Draft and the opportunity to begin his pro career may outweigh the benefits of staying in school.
There’s also the personal aspect to consider. McCord has spent four years in college football, including his time at Ohio State. He may be ready to move on to the next chapter of his life. Additionally, the demands of preparing for the NFL Draft may offer a more appealing challenge for a player looking to prove himself on the biggest stage.
For now, McCord and Syracuse fans alike will have to wait for a decision. With bowl season underway, the quarterback’s focus remains on finishing strong and adding to what has already been a successful year for the Orange.
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