Syracuse football is gearing up for a significant recruiting weekend this June, as they prepare to host James Pace III, a highly-touted four-star edge rusher from the class of 2027. Hailing from the talent-rich DMV area, Pace is set to visit the Orange from June 12 to June 14. This visit coincides with several other top prospects making their way to the Hill, signaling a critical moment for Syracuse's recruiting efforts.
Standing at an imposing 6-foot-4 and weighing 235 pounds, Pace is a standout at DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. Known for its elite football program, DeMatha boasts a strong reputation in the Washington, D.C., metro area. Last season, the team went undefeated with an 11-0 record, earning a No. 14 national ranking from MaxPreps.
Pace's junior year was nothing short of impressive. He racked up 81 tackles and 14 sacks, earning a spot on the MaxPreps 2025 junior All-America second team on defense. His prowess on the field has caught the attention of major programs, leading him to announce a top eight that includes Syracuse, Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana, Maryland, Penn State, Alabama, and Georgia.
Syracuse head coach Fran Brown and his staff have been diligently pursuing Pace, offering him a scholarship back in September 2024. Their efforts have paid off as they remain in contention for this talented edge rusher, who is ranked No. 69 overall and No. 6 at his position by 247Sports. ESPN also places him at No. 83 nationally, underscoring his status as a top-tier recruit.
The mid-June weekend will be bustling at Syracuse, as the coaching staff welcomes not only Pace but also a slew of other promising recruits. Joining him are four-star running back Xavier Bala from Saint Anthony's High School in New York, three-star athlete Sa’Nir Brooks from Saint Frances Academy in Baltimore, four-star offensive tackle Q'mari Hudson from Western Branch High School in Virginia, and four-star wide receiver Javien Robinson from McKeesport Area Senior High School in Pennsylvania.
This recruiting push reflects Syracuse's commitment to building a formidable team for the future, with Pace's visit being a pivotal part of their strategy. As the Orange aim to secure commitments from these high-caliber athletes, the excitement and anticipation continue to build around the program's potential growth.