We are just two months away from Syracuse football (0-0, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) taking the field for the 2025 season, and the next position group in the spotlight is the secondary. Under head coach Fran Brown, expectations are high that the defensive backs will take another step forward after a season of statistical progress and strategic overhaul.
Brown, a former cornerback himself, was hired for his defensive acumen and track record with DBs at programs like Temple, Baylor, Rutgers, and Georgia. Last season, Syracuse finished tied for 34th nationally with 12 interceptions and individual players stood out in key metrics. Strong safety Alijah Clark led the secondary with 61 total tackles, showcasing elite run support. Cornerback Clarence Lewis, a Notre Dame transfer, was one of the ACC's most disruptive defenders, tallying 13 passes defended, fourth-most in the conference.
"We made strides last year, but this group can be special," Brown said in spring practice. "They've bought in — not just to the scheme, but to competing every rep."
Despite last year's promise, Syracuse's secondary has lost some major contributors. Clark declared for the NFL Draft and signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent, while Lewis inked a deal with the Tennessee Titans. Nickelback Jayden Bellamy transferred to UCF after tying for the team lead in interceptions, whereas Marcellus Barnes left for SMU. Altogether, that's four experienced defenders gone, including the top two in pass breakups and tackles.
That said, talent remains. Duce Chestnut is back in the Orange uniform after a career-high 62 tackles in 11 starts. He's expected to lead a unit that includes returning DBs Devin Grant and Jalil Martin, who both saw meaningful snaps last season. Spring ball also highlighted the emergence of Davien Kerr, a physical, instinctual corner who could step into a starting role.
A big new face is also reloading the room. True freshman Demetres Samuel Jr., a top-20 defensive back recruit nationally, has already earned first-team spring reps. Samuel is also known for his ability as a two-way player at wide receiver. The influx gives Syracuse 19 defensive backs on its roster, one of the deepest secondaries in the ACC.
"The competition is intense every day," Chestnut said. "Guys are hungry to prove themselves. We don’t want to be average — we want to dominate."
The Orange secondary in 2024 was solid but not dominant. The defense ranked 96th in scoring, allowing 29.2 points per game, and struggled to contain big plays late in the season. With Brown’s player-friendly scheme and an infusion of talent, expectations for the 2025 season are clearly higher. More interceptions, fewer busted coverages, and improved depth are all on the table.
"I think we’re going to surprise people," Samuel Jr. said after SU’s spring game. "There’s a swagger here now. Coach Brown brought it, and we’re running with it."