After getting a verbal commitment from the top prospect in New York State on Friday, Brown is getting lots of compliments.
Syracuse football fans received exciting news in advance of the July 4 holiday when Elijah Kimble (Class of 2027) announced his intentions to sign with the Orange football program.
Signings aren't official until the early signing period in December, or the official signing period in Feb. of 2027, but this was still a very good get for Syracuse and head coach Fran Brown.
Kimble, a running back and the number one ranked recruit in New York State, selected Syracuse over offers from Indiana, North Carolina and others.
Since Friday evening, Syracuse football has been receiving near universal praise on social media.
National Media on Syracuse football
National radio host Damon Amendolara said this about the weekend for Syracuse football"
"Fran Brown is delivering on the biggest promise he made at Syracuse: recruiting. Landing New York's top prospect Elijah Kimble over Ohio State, Oregon, and North Carolina is a massive statement for the future of @CuseFootball. #Syracuse #CollegeFootball"
Kimble's message to other recruits
Following his verbal commitment to Syracuse, the rising senior began his own version of recruiting, with messages to fellow prospects to join him at Syracuse.
"The best in New York stay in New York" was what Kimble told media members in Western New York on Friday evening. The quote may be directed at fellow Empire State recruits who could potentially follow him to Syracuse.
On X, Kimble wrote to Xavier Gates-Franklin, a junior teammate at Canisius, who is also a college football prospect. Kimble's message to him?
"Meet me there brother!"
Other reactions
The social media account 'CFBTalkDaily' said this about Brown:
"This is what Fran Brown does
He raises the talent floor
They lose a running back? No problem we will go get a 4 star and #1 back in the State
Best bang for buck recruiter in the country"
What does the weekend praise mean for the future?
Following a 3-9 record in 2025, a change in the way in which Syracuse football is perceived could have a strong positive impact on future seasons.
In-state recruiting can also be a critical lifeline for a Syracuse football program that is intent on finding local talent to help lead the program to future success.
The nationwide attention the program has gained over the past few days could help influence the decision for some prospects on where they may want to play when they make their college choices.
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