After not being selected in this years draft, three more Syracuse players signed with NFL teams as undrafted free agents.
As the NFL draft came to a close this weekend, many colleges players were left undrafted, including SU players Alec Lemon, Deon Goggins, Zach Chibane and Marcus Sales. But even though these players didn't hear their name called or receive of phone call from an NFL team, a few of them signed this weekend as undrafted free agents.
While it was speculated that Ryan Nassib would get drafted in first round, it was Justin Pugh who hear his name called on day one, while Nassib and Shamarko Thomas waited until the fourth round.
Ryan Nassib, Justin Pugh and Shamarko Thomas finally had their NFL aspirations fulfilled during the 2013 NFL Draft. The three catalysts that propelled the Syracuse Orange to an 8-5 season have landed with two of the more successful franchises in the league today.
Linebacker Marquis Spruill and wide receiver Jarrod West fill the leadship void on defense and offense.
As the Syracuse Orange took to the Carrier Dome for spring practice on Sunday, the question surrounding the team is which player will elevate his performance as a new era of Syracuse football begins.
In the meantime, head coach Scott Shafer was busy observing his defense handle the offense in stride during the course of the two-hour practice.
The return of seniors Christopher Clark and Jarrod West, as well as some young talent, give SU some depth at the receiver position.
The philosophy of Orange head football coach Scott Shafer has always been centered on the idea that a hard-nosed defense will trump a talented offense on any occasion. If you need proof, just look at Syracuse’s 2012 Pinstripe Bowl victory over West Virginia. His defensive unit held the ninth-best offensive team in the country to only fourteen points in a dominant triumph over the Mountaineers.
After losing multiple starters and coaches this offseason, Syracuse football looks to build on last years success with some familiar faces, including a friendly competition at quarterback.