One of the most exciting players on the Orange roster is not available yet in the newly released game.
This past winter, Syracuse football fans were thrilled by the signing of top recruit Calvin Russell III. Before Russell ever takes the field for the Orange, Orange football fans were hoping to virtually play as the talented wide receiver in the popular video game 'College Football '27,' released by EA Sports. However, Russell was not listed on the roster when the game out.
Details on the College Football '27 video
Released earlier this month, College Football '27 is available for purchase to all PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC users. While college football video games were popular throughout the early 2000s, this marks just the third time that EA Sports has been able to use real players, complete with images and likenesses. Players who are featured in the game are now given a portion of the game's sales, which was not the case under the previous iterations.
Who is Calvin Russell III?
A five-star wide receiver prospect from Florida, Russell is one of the highest ranked recruits in Syracuse football history. A two-sport standout, Russell enrolled early and immediately joined the basketball team. He appeared in one basketball game, joining the football program at the conclusion of the hoops season. Russell was projected to be an impactful player for the Orange in his freshman season, pairing with quarterback Steve Angeli to make an exciting downfield connection.
Why was Russell not originally in the game?
In March, Russell suffered a torn Achilles tendon injury during spring practice. The injury results in most athletes needing a recovery time of 8-10 months. Although head coach Fran Brown has offered optimistic updates about Russell's injury recovery, the exact status of Russell's use this season is unknown.
It is possible that EA Sports kept Russell off the roster because of a potential redshirt season being used by the highly-touted prospect. Russell's unclear status could play a factor in him not appearing as a useable roster member when the game was originally released.
Will Calvin Russell ever be a playable piece in College Football '27?
For those Orange fans who were hoping to play as the exciting freshman prospect, it seems that he will appear in the game later this year. Users are able to upload updated rosters through online play and Syracuse.com's Javon Edmonds spoke to NETWORK, a sports advertising and marketing company, and the company said this:
"For the Syracuse fans that were worried about Calvin Russell III not being in CFB 27, I was just told by @TheNetworkAdvsr that he has signed on and you will be able to play with him this season"
What's next for Syracuse football and Russell?
The Orange will report to training camp next month. The details of practice dates and times are still yet to be announced by the program.
Kickoff for the regular season is set for Sept, 5 inside the JMA Wireless Dome. The Orange host New Hampshire at 12 p.m. ET.
As for Russell, Orange fans will likely to wait and see if he makes any appearances on the field for the Orange this fall.
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