The Syracuse University football team lost two key pieces on Monday, as co-defensive coordinator Elijah Robinson left the program for a job at Texas A&M and running back Jaden Hart announced he was testing the transfer portal.

About Robinson

Robinson had been with Syracuse for the last two seasons, helping the defensive unit have immense success in a 10-win 2024 campaign. As noted by the university website, Robinson worked with 10 different players who recorded interceptions in 2024, and 12 who recorded a sack.

However, the entire operation struggled in 2025 as the Orange went 3-9, losing eight straight games in the wake of quarterback Steve Angeli's injury.

At the conclusion of the season, head coach Fran Brown announced he was transitioning Robinson to a co-defensive coordinator role. He hired Vince Kehres of Toledo as the new defensive coordinator. It's unclear if those decisions caused Robinson to want to leave.

Another factor could have been that Robinson has also worked at Texas A&M before, where he eventually served as interim head coach in the wake of Jimbo Fisher's firing. He's also been at Baylor, Temple and Penn State. He played at Penn State.

He will be the defensive line coach for the Aggies, who just advanced to the College Football Playoff.

His final message

He posted the following on social media (only partial transcribed below):

"To the Syracuse Football Family,

I'm incredibly grateful for my time at Syracuse. My time here was meaningful because of the people, I trust, respect and shared history with that made this place feel like home from day one.

We experienced hights and challenges together, but the constant was the care and commitment everyone showed to this program and to each other.

I want to thank Mr. John Wildhack for his leadership and support.

Coach Fran my brother far beyond this profession for the opportunity, trust, energy and life you brought to this program. Because of you, the nation is alert to the S!!!..."

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About Hart

A sophomore from Indiana, Hart spent two years with the Orange, carrying the ball 15 times this season for 53 yards. He has yet to score a collegiate touchdown and will have two years of eligibility remaining. Remember, just because he's testing the portal, it doesn't mean he's definitely gone.

Also on campus

--The SU men's basketball will be at home on Monday night in the final non-conference game of the season. They'll take on Stonehill (3-9) at 7 p.m. ET. Our own Tom Goslowski will have the coverage live from the JMA Wireless Dome. Follow him @TomGozz on social media.

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