In a stunning development on National Signing Day, five-star wide receiver Calvin Russell III announced he will not be signing with Syracuse University. Russell revealed his decision Wednesday morning during a ceremony at his high school, Miami Northwestern.
“It’s been a hard three or four days,” Russell said. “I’ve been thinking and I won’t be signing today.” He did not offer a reason for the delay.
The 6-foot-5, 195-pound receiver committed to Syracuse in July, becoming the program’s highest-ranked prospect in more than two decades. He was considered the crown jewel of what was projected to be Syracuse’s most impressive recruiting class of the modern rankings era.
Russell’s decision follows a difficult 3-9 season for the Orange, marked by an offense hampered by poor quarterback play and an inability to establish a passing threat.
Throughout the fall, the Miami native was heavily recruited by other top programs, including his hometown University of Miami, where his mother played basketball. Russell was seen on the sidelines for several Miami football games this season. Michigan was also considered a primary competitor for his commitment last July.
Despite interest from other schools, Russell and his representatives had consistently maintained he was solid in his commitment to Syracuse until Wednesday’s announcement.
With Russell’s signing now on hold, four-star wide receiver Amare’ Gough from Thomas Jefferson High School in Virginia becomes the highest-ranked player in Syracuse’s current recruiting class.
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