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Two apparent Syracuse targets -- TE Sam McKeon and OLB Solomon Manning -- both headed elsewhere this morning (Michigan and Rutgers, respectively), so the focus now shifts to new 2016 targets for the Orange. One of those new recruits to focus in on is four-star defensive back Eric Burrell.
The Maryland (Owings Mills) product visited SU this past Saturday for an unofficial trip without many expectations. When he left campus, however, it appeared things had changed a bit. As he told Syracuse.com's Stephen Bailey:
"I didn't really expect anything because I haven't been up there," Burrell said, "but it turns out I really liked it... They have a really good chance."
That's great news for the Orange, who have been adding secondary talent as much as possible (including recent Tampa commit Scoop Bradshaw), but could always use another body -- especially one as skilled as the four-star Burrell. He's currently rated as the 18th-best safety in the class of 2016, and possesses offers from other power programs like Wisconsin, Nebraska, Arizona and ACC conference-mate Duke, among others.
In terms of his preferred destination, he's looking to speed up his decision process, but doesn't really have a favorite just yet:
"I don't really have an order right now, but I really like the way (Syracuse) presented themselves."
It's great we have a chance, but ultimately, we have to keep closing players of this caliber. We'll see how this recruitment develops and if Burrell adds his name to a growing and impressive list of 2016 players for Syracuse.
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In additional recruiting news, Pennsylvania (Allentown) defensive end Noel Brouse will be taking an unofficial visit up to SU this Wednesday, he tweeted out last night. Brouse is currently unrated, but holds offers from Syracuse and Old Dominion in terms of FBS schools, and has discussed interest with Penn State, West Virginia and Vanderbilt, along with offers from a slew of FCS programs (including Yale).
As Stephen Bailey mentions over on Syracuse.com, the 6'6", 255-pound end would be the first defensive linemen added for 2016. You'd think SU would want him to add a few pounds prior to suiting up for the Orange, but he potentially has two full years to do so.
We'll provided updates on both of these players' respective recruiting processes as they continue.