Kyle McCord Shines at Syracuse Pro Day, Cementing NFL Draft Prospects
Syracuse, NY — In a transformative journey from Ohio State to Syracuse, quarterback Kyle McCord has emerged as a standout player, pivotal to the Orange’s successful 10-win season under first-year head coach Fran Brown. Following a record-breaking performance last season, where he threw for 4,779 yards and 34 touchdowns, McCord showcased his talent again during Syracuse’s recent pro day, solidifying his status as a promising NFL prospect.
McCord’s pro day performance highlighted his crisp passing accuracy and ability to anticipate routes, especially excelling in intermediate throws. "Players need a change of scenery to get the most out of their abilities," one NFL analyst reflected, emphasizing McCord’s growth after transferring to Syracuse, where he quickly became the team’s undisputed starter.
While his journey was not without challenges, particularly a five-interception game against Pittsburgh, McCord demonstrated resilience. "You’re going to have bad games and how do you respond?" he noted during an interview at the NFL Scouting Combine, referencing his ability to rebound and finish the season strong. This attitude of overcoming adversity has resonated well with scouts, as McCord framed his experiences as crucial for preparing him for the NFL.
McCord described transferring to Syracuse as "a leap of faith," which undeniably paid off. His enhanced development has drawn comparisons to Joe Burrow, who famously left Ohio State for LSU to find success. "I think just focusing on all those areas, kind of nerding out on the details of it," McCord explained, referring to his work on throwing mechanics and pocket movement with QBs coach Jordan Palmer.
Following his impressive season and pro day, analysts have raised McCord’s draft stock significantly from a potential priority free agent to a projected Day 2 pick, placing him among top prospects like Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jaxson Dart.
Other Standouts at Syracuse Pro Day
McCord wasn’t the only player who stood out at the Syracuse pro day. Tight end Oronde Gadsden II, the son of former NFL player Oronde Gadsden, showcased his versatility, performing effectively by lining up as a tight end, slot receiver, and outside receiver. Despite not running at the NFL Combine, Gadsden recorded a 4.65-second 40-yard dash at the pro day, alleviating previous questions about his speed. Known for his physical playing style and contested catch ability, Gadsden is positioned as a valuable asset in today’s evolving NFL landscape.
Running back LeQuint Allen also caught the attention of scouts, especially for his dual-threat capability as a runner and receiver. Although he did not run the 40 at the pro day, his performance throughout the season demonstrated his speed and efficiency. Analysts have ranked him as a potential Day 2 pick owing to his young age—just 20 at the time of the draft—and solid skill set, including impressive blocking and pass-catching abilities.
Conclusion: Significance of McCord’s Journey
Kyle McCord’s rise from a backup in Ohio State to a potential NFL starter reflects the broader theme of resilience and adaptability in college athletics. His success at Syracuse underscores the importance of finding the right environment for player development and emphasizes the growing trend of athletes seeking opportunities that align with their potential. With NFL teams looking for quarterbacks who can thrive under pressure and showcase versatility, McCord’s performance—along with those of his teammates at pro day—could significantly impact their professional careers. As the NFL Draft approaches, many will be watching how these athletes translate their college successes to the next level.
