SU football updates coaching staff, hires former Big 12 all-conference players

The Syracuse University football team is looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season, and head coach Fran Brown is taking a significant step towards achieving that goal. After a last-place finish in the Atlantic Coast Conference, Brown has revamped his coaching staff by hiring several new assistants, including former Big 12 all-conference players. The move is aimed at bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the team, which struggled on both sides of the ball last season.

The new hires include former Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon, who will serve as the team's new receivers coach. Blackmon, a two-time Big 12 all-conference selection, had a storied collegiate career before going on to play in the NFL. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position, having worked with some of the top receivers in the country during his playing days. Additionally, the team has hired former Kansas State linebacker Arthur Brown, who will take over as the team's new linebackers coach. Brown, a former Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, had a successful collegiate career before playing in the NFL for several seasons.

The coaching staff updates are part of a broader effort by Brown to shake things up and get the team back on track. The Orange struggled mightily on offense last season, ranking near the bottom of the conference in several key categories. The team's defense wasn't much better, allowing an average of over 30 points per game. By bringing in new coaches with strong playing backgrounds, Brown is hoping to inject some much-needed energy and expertise into the program. The team is also expected to return several key players from last season's roster, including quarterback Garrett Shrader and running back Sean Tucker.

The hires have generated a buzz among Syracuse fans, who are eager to see the team return to its former glory. The Orange have a rich football tradition, having won several conference championships and produced numerous NFL players over the years. While the 2025 season was a disappointment, there is optimism that the team can turn things around with the right coaching and player development. Brown and his staff will have their work cut out for them, but with the new additions to the coaching staff, there is a sense that the team is heading in the right direction.

The updated coaching staff will have a chance to make its debut when the team takes the field for spring practice in a few weeks. The Orange will face a tough schedule in 2026, including matchups against several top-ranked teams in the ACC. However, with the new coaching staff in place, there is a sense of excitement and optimism among fans and players alike. As the team looks to bounce back from a disappointing season, all eyes will be on Brown and his staff to see if they can lead the Orange back to prominence.