Syracuse made a strong impression on 2028 edge rusher Michel Adams during his latest trip to campus, and the four-star prospect came away feeling like a real priority in the Orange’s recruiting plan.
Adams, a Middletown (DE) High standout who is rated a four-star prospect by 247Sports, has already built a deep offer sheet that includes Boston College, Duke, Florida, Florida State and LSU. Syracuse was one of the first programs to get involved, and the Orange have stayed in the mix throughout his recruitment. He was back in town over the weekend for Syracuse’s 66-3 win over New Hampshire in the 2026 season opener.
The visit gave Adams a chance to spend time with several members of the staff, including defensive line coaches John Scott Jr., who serves as his primary recruiter, and Jeremy Hawkins, along with head coach Fran Brown.
“It was a good visit,” Adams said to The Juice Online. “(Top highlight was) meeting in the back and talking with coach Fran Brown before the game.”
That conversation centered on Syracuse’s approach to Adams’ recruitment, with Brown making it clear that the Orange intend to keep him high on their board. Adams said Brown also told him he would be one of the staffers in closest contact with him moving forward.
“Love talking with coach Fran before the game,” Adams said. “And him putting his energy into me and telling me I am a top priority for them.”
Brown also discussed Syracuse’s performance on the field, as the Orange defense shut down New Hampshire, holding the visitors to under 150 total yards and keeping them out of the end zone all afternoon.
Adams also spent time with Hawkins and Scott, and the talk there focused on how the season has started.
“Everybody was in sync and all on one accord,” Adams said. "I think that Syracuse is a good offer with a good program.”
Syracuse already has a little extra familiarity with Adams through former teammate BJ Garrett, who is now a true freshman with the Orange.
Even with schools lining up to recruit him, Adams said he’s not rushing the process. He plans to keep collecting information before making any decisions.
“Getting love from a lot of schools,” Adams said. “Nobody in particular is standing out."
Back home, Adams helped open his own season with a 41-27 win over Tottenville. He said his night went well.
“Going good,” Adams said. “Dominated my first game.”
For Adams, that kind of start comes from the way he approaches the game.
“I just have a very killer mindset on the d-line,” Adams said.
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