The Syracuse football program went 3-9 last season in the wake of an injury to starting quarterback Steve Angeli. The Orange were 3-1 late into September, but lost eight straight after Angeli tore his Achilles.

Angeli is back for 2026, which means the expectations are higher for the Orange, but his return will also be supplemented by a solid group of transfer portal additions as well.

While there were a handful of upside plays or "change of scenery" guys, the Orange did well to get players who were established and have significant experience.

As a result, SU has to feel like it has a good amount of "known commodities" from the portal.

So which transfer will be the most impactful for Fran Brown's team in 2026?

D'Appolonia appeared in 26 games over parts of three seasons with the Rockets, but he only played two games in 2024, meaning he earned a medical redshirt. As a result, he'll have two years of eligibility for the Orange.

Last season for Toledo, D'Appolonia had 36 solo tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and one sack. He also had four pass deflections and a forced fumble. He recently garnered recognition from college football insider Phil Steele as well.

Well, for starters, he's a good player and Syracuse needs more good players if it wants to truly improve this season.

Secondly, he's a linebacker, meaning he'll have a chance to really lead the defense. While linebackers don't always necessarily have to be the best players on a defense, they are responsible for communication to the rest of the unit.

Thirdly, D'Appolonia played at Toledo, which is where new Syracuse defensive coordinator Vince Kehres just came from.

As Brown looks to improve this defense, Kehres's hire is critical. That means that D'Appolonia's understanding of the system, the verbiage and the expectations that Kehres has are critical.

He will be able to act as an effective intermediary between the defense and the coaching staff. He will also be able to set an example since he already knows the standard.

Two Syracuse men's soccer alums have now played two games in the 2026 Men's World Cup. Miles Robinson and Team USA are 2-0 and will be advancing to the elimination stage. Tajon Buchanan and Canada are 1-0-1 and will be seeking their own trip to the Round of 32 as well.

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