Syracuse is getting a familiar name back in the wide receiver room. Justus Ross-Simmons is rejoining the program, a source confirmed to CuseNation.com, and his return gives the Orange a needed dose of experience at a position group that has talent but not much seasoning.
Ross-Simmons had been considered out of eligibility, but the Colorado injunction has opened the door for class of 2022 players to receive an extra year. He is taking advantage of that ruling and will play for Syracuse for another season. The injunction is still not a final decision, though, so his eligibility remains tied to the outcome of that litigation for now.
Over four seasons from 2022 through 2025, Ross-Simmons has put together 100 catches for 1,662 yards and 13 touchdowns. His best statistical season came at Colorado State in his sophomore year, when he posted 45 receptions for 724 yards and three scores.
He transferred to Syracuse for the 2024 season and dealt with injuries before making his biggest impact late in the year. In Syracuse’s 10-win 2024 campaign, he finished with nine catches for 202 yards and two touchdowns, and those two scores played a key role in the comeback win over Virginia Tech.
Ross-Simmons followed that with a 20-catch, 312-yard, five-touchdown season as Syracuse’s offense struggled after the injury to Steve Angeli. Now back in the fold, he immediately becomes the most experienced player in the Orange receiver group and has a chance to show more of what he can do. With a healthier body and a better quarterback situation, he could be in line for a more efficient season.
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The timing makes the setback more frustrating because Syracuse has been trying to build momentum at receiver while also managing who can do what in practice, with some players stuck in conditioning or non-contact work. On top of that, the Orange are still working through the steps to add Justus Ross-Simmons to the roster, which makes the next stretch of spring even more important for a group that suddenly looks thinner than it did not long ago. [Read more 🡒]