For Dontre Hampton, Syracuse’s offer landed with real meaning.
The 2027 Buffalo (NY) Bennett running back grew up following the Orange, and the chance to add Syracuse to his list in May hit differently because of that connection. Hampton, a Western New York native who has been to the JMA Wireless Dome before to watch games, called the offer a major personal moment.
“I think that it is a blessing to have my first big ACC school to trust in me and give me an offer,” Hampton said to The Juice Online. “So I think this is a very valuable moment in my life. I actually like the SU program very much from just alone off how much I've grown up watching the program ”
The offer came from running backs coach Dennis Thomas, and Hampton came away impressed with the way Thomas approached him.
“I think coach DT is a great coach,” Hampton said. “Honestly, first speaking to him he was very excited talking to me and when we worked out he coached me up on some things.”
Their conversations have gone beyond the offer itself. Hampton said they also talked about ways Syracuse could help sharpen his game.
“We spoke just about how I could execute things in a better way or to pull me to teach me a technique,” Hampton said.
Hampton made another trip to Syracuse in June for 7v7 camp, where he got a better look at the program and spent time around more of the staff and players.
“I think SU has good facilities and campus from what I’ve seen,” Hampton said.
He also likes the direction Syracuse has taken with its recruiting under Fran Brown, especially when it comes to keeping New York talent close to home. Hampton pointed to the Orange’s commitment from four-star running back Elijah Kimble, another Western New York product, as a move he respects.
“I think that's a great thing keeping the best players at home right in Syracuse,” Hampton said. “I think Elijah Kimble staying home is definitely a smart move.”
Hampton, who also plays defensive back, is being recruited by Syracuse as a running back. He described his style with the kind of edge that fits the position.
“I am the kind of running back that is relentless,” Hampton said. “I'm the one that's going to make you not want to line up every down.
It's the same thing on defense side of the ball. I don't stop until the whistle is blown."
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