Players from Syracuse football and the surrounding Central New York area to keep an eye on during the 2025 NFL season
In the world of American football, the National Football League (NFL) is a hive of activity as teams gear up for the 2025 season. Among the players preparing for the upcoming campaign are several alumni of Syracuse University, each carving out their own niche in the league.
Zaire Franklin, a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, is one such alumnus. Entering his ninth season in the NFL, Franklin continues to be a stalwart in the Colts' defense.
Meanwhile, Oronde Gadsden II, a rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Chargers, was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Gadsden II has made an impressive start to his NFL career, earning a spot on the Chargers' 53-man roster after a productive preseason. Marlowe Wax, another Chargers player with Syracuse roots, also made the team's roster as a linebacker.
The Cleveland Browns have a Syracuse connection too, with Andre Szmyt holding down the starting kicker role. Szmyt edged out veteran Dustin Hopkins in the preseason to secure the position.
Elsewhere, Savion Washington finds himself on the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad, though currently unable to perform due to a physical issue. Washington, who is a tackle, is hopeful of returning to action soon.
Courtney Jackson is another Syracuse alumnus on a practice squad, this time with the Seattle Seahawks. As a wide receiver, Jackson will be eager to impress and earn a spot on the main roster.
The Miami Dolphins have two Syracuse graduates on their roster. Linebacker SirVocea Dennis, in his third season with the team, and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, entering his sixth season in the league after spending the first five years with the Detroit Lions, are both key contributors for the Dolphins.
Jawhar Jordan, a running back on the Houston Texans' practice squad, and Justin Barron, a linebacker on the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad, are two more Syracuse alumni looking to make their mark in the NFL.
In the AFC East, the New England Patriots boast Tommy DeVito as their backup quarterback. DeVito, who spent three years with the New York Giants before joining the Patriots, is ready to step up should the need arise.
The Arizona Cardinals have Garrett Williams, a cornerback, on their roster, while the Jacksonville Jaguars have LeQuint Allen Jr., a running back, following his selection in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have added Riley Dixon, their new punter, to their ranks. Dixon, who is entering his first season with the Buccaneers and his 10th season in the NFL overall, will be crucial in the team's special teams department.
Trishton Jackson, a wide receiver, and Alijah Clark, a defensive back, find themselves on the practice squads of the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys respectively.
Fadil Diggs, a defensive end, is on the New Orleans Saints' practice squad, while Jackson Meeks, a wide receiver, is on the Detroit Lions' practice squad.
Lastly, Kyle McCord, a quarterback, is on the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad.
Former Syracuse University players are spread far and wide across the NFL, demonstrating the university's rich footballing heritage and the varied roles its alumni play in the league.
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