The Syracuse Orange football program is dealing with a double blow this week as it navigates a pivotal offseason. On Monday, two significant departures hit the roster and coaching staff: co-defensive coordinator Elijah Robinson is heading back to Texas A&M, and sophomore running back Jaden Hart has officially entered the transfer portal.
Elijah Robinson Heads to College Station
Elijah Robinson’s time at Syracuse was short but impactful. Over the past two seasons, he helped engineer a defensive resurgence that played a major role in the Orange’s 10-win campaign in 2024.
That year, Syracuse’s defense was opportunistic and aggressive-ten different players recorded interceptions, and twelve registered at least one sack. It was a group that thrived on depth and versatility, and Robinson’s fingerprints were all over it.
But 2025 told a different story. The Orange stumbled to a 3-9 finish, losing eight straight after quarterback Steve Angeli went down with an injury.
The defense, once a strength, couldn’t find the same rhythm. Following the season, new head coach Fran Brown made some staff adjustments-moving Robinson into a co-defensive coordinator role and bringing in Vince Kehres from Toledo to take over as defensive coordinator.
Whether that shift influenced Robinson’s decision to leave is unclear, but the timing certainly raises eyebrows.
Robinson won’t be walking into unfamiliar territory in his next role. He’s heading back to Texas A&M, where he previously served on staff and even stepped in as interim head coach after Jimbo Fisher’s departure.
This time, he’ll be the Aggies’ defensive line coach-a key role on a team fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance. His resume includes stops at Baylor, Temple, and Penn State, where he also played.
The move feels like both a homecoming and a step forward.
Before his departure, Robinson shared a heartfelt message on social media, thanking the Syracuse community and specifically head coach Fran Brown, whom he called “my brother far beyond this profession.” He praised the culture and commitment within the program, saying, “Because of you, the nation is alert to the S!!!” It’s clear his time in Central New York left a mark.
Jaden Hart Enters the Portal
On the player side, Syracuse also saw running back Jaden Hart enter the transfer portal. The sophomore from Indiana didn’t see much action this past season-just 15 carries for 53 yards and no touchdowns-but he’s still a young back with two years of eligibility remaining.
Hart’s decision to test the portal doesn’t necessarily mean he’s gone for good. Players often explore their options before making a final call, and with a new coaching staff in place, there’s always a chance of a return. Still, it’s a situation worth monitoring, especially as Syracuse looks to retool its offense heading into 2026.
What’s Next?
The Orange are in a transitional phase. Fran Brown is trying to build something sustainable, and that means turnover is inevitable. The departure of a respected coach like Robinson and a young player like Hart underscores the challenges of maintaining continuity in today’s college football landscape, especially with the transfer portal reshaping rosters overnight.
But there are also opportunities. With Kehres stepping in as defensive coordinator, Syracuse has a chance to reset its defensive identity. And with roster spots opening up, Brown and his staff can continue to mold the team in their vision-whether through recruiting or the portal.
The Orange have work to do, but the foundation isn’t gone. It’s just shifting.