Syracuse Lands Star Running Back Over Several Major Big Ten Programs

Syracuse lands a key offensive piece for its rising 2027 class with a top in-state running back making his decision.

Syracuse football just added another key piece to its 2027 recruiting class, and it’s a name that should have Orange fans paying close attention to the future of the backfield. Sa'Nir Brooks, a running back out of Baltimore's powerhouse St.

Frances Academy, announced his commitment to Syracuse on Saturday via social media. And this wasn’t a light recruiting win-Brooks had offers from a strong list of programs, including Michigan State, Minnesota, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and others.

The Orange are getting a highly regarded talent in Brooks. Rated as a three-star prospect with an 89 grade-just a tick below four-star status-he’s currently ranked as the No. 21 running back in the 2027 class and the seventh-best player in the state of Maryland.

Nationally, the 247Sports Composite slots him at No. 437 overall and No. 34 at his position. For a program looking to build a sustainable pipeline of talent, this is exactly the kind of addition that moves the needle.

In his commitment post, Brooks expressed his gratitude toward Syracuse head coach Fran Brown and the rest of the Orange coaching staff, thanking them for the opportunity. He also gave a heartfelt shoutout to his parents, family, and coaches who’ve helped shape his football journey so far.

This commitment is another major win for a Syracuse staff that’s been on a tear in the 2027 cycle. With Brooks in the fold, the Orange now have 10 verbal commits and hold the No. 6 overall class in the country, according to 247Sports. That’s not just good-it’s elite territory, especially for a program looking to re-establish itself on the national stage.

Brooks joins a class that’s beginning to take on real shape and identity. It includes versatile athlete Tank White from Melbourne Central Catholic (FL), quarterback Justin Dixon from Concordia Prep (MD), and defensive back Travis Miles out of Hillside High (NJ). The trenches are getting attention too, with defensive lineman Stanley Montgomery (Archbishop Ryan, PA) and offensive lineman Edwin Guzman (Erie High, PA) already committed.

The class also features athlete Davion Crumitie (Rickards High, FL), defensive back Tristin Hughes (Rocky River High, OH), Connor Long (Old Bridge High, NJ), and Marcus Small (First Coast High, FL).

Syracuse is clearly putting an emphasis on recruiting up and down the East Coast, tapping into talent-rich states like Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. And with a player like Brooks-who’s been tested against some of the best high school competition in the country at St. Frances-this class continues to build on both talent and credibility.

It’s early in the 2027 cycle, but the Orange are making noise. And if this momentum holds, Syracuse could be laying the foundation for something special in the years to come.