2026 quarterback Zaid Lott commits to Syracuse hours after UNC decommitment

After decommitting from North Carolina earlier Tuesday, Charlotte (N.C.) Providence Day School three-star quarterback Zaid Lott has a new home: Syracuse.

The signal-caller announced his pledge to the Orange a little over an hour after backing off his longtime commitment to the Tar Heels.

“I am forever grateful to finally say that I am officially HOME,” he wrote on Twitter.

I am forever grateful to finally say that I am officially HOME🍊🍊🍊!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/EDhDqqPQeI

— Zaid Lott (@lott_zaid) March 25, 2025

Lott had been pledged to the Tar Heels since June 2024, dating back to when former head coach Mack Brown was leading the program. However, he was fired this offseason and replaced by ex-New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.

“After much reflection, I have decided to forgo my commitment to the University of North Carolina,” he wrote on Twitter. “This choice was tough, but I believe it’s the best step for my future. I’m grateful for the support and understanding from everyone involved. I’m excited for what comes next.”

The 6-foot-3, 180-pounder is the No. 765 overall prospect in the 2026 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the nation’s No. 53 quarterback and No. 34 recruit in North Carolina.

Prior to his original commitment to the Tar Heels, Lott also received offers from Charlotte, Boston College, Florida State and NC State. As a junior last fall, Lott completed nearly 59 percent of his passes while throwing for 2,869 yards, 28 touchdowns and six interceptions. He added to that on the ground with 285 rushing yards and seven more scores.