Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord declares for 2025 NFL Draft

Syracuse Orange quarterback Kyle McCord is declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, choosing to no longer pursue an NCAA eligibility waiver for another season, he announced via social media.

McCord was the nation’s leading passer in 2024. He also broke the ACC single-season passing record this year, and it’s evident he’ll carry lessons learned from his time with the Orange into the next level: “As continue my journey forward, I am officially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft,” McCord wrote. “This has been my lifelong dream, and I’m incredibly blessed to be able to go chase it. I’ll forever bleed orange.”

Moreover, McCord joined the Orange after three seasons with the Ohio State Buckeyes. While he was solid in Columbus, he truly found his footing at Syracuse, passing for 4,779 yards and 34 touchdowns.

The quarterback’s play helped ease any growing pains brought on by it being coach Fran Brown’s first season with the program. It was a highly-successful campaign that helped set the stage for future success, and Brown has spoken eloquently about his soon-to-be-former player, pointing out during an appearance on the ACC Network that he views the QB as a top five prospect at his position.

Throughout the year, Brown also thanked Ohio State coach Ryan Day multiple times for allowing McCord to come to Syracuse. He did so again after the regular season, and made it clear he’s not joking or being disrespectful.

“I’m happy that Kyle was able to go and clear his name, come here and show that he’s a good quarterback,” Brown said. “I got ridiculed for stating that I wanted to send Ryan Day a bottle of champagne where I wasn’t being disrespectful.

“I was just saying, this guy’s the real deal, and you guys let him come here. Like, great, thank you. I still owe him. Should send him some more, should send him a (expletive) case, not even a bottle. Excuse my language, but just extremely excited and thankful for Kyle.”

All told, Kyle McCord helped Syracuse to finish with 10 wins for only the third time in the past 25 years this past season. His return would’ve been a major boost for the Orange after they finished tied for fourth in the ACC standings following a win against Miami to close the regular season, but he’s decided to move on to the NFL, where he’ll hope to continue turning heads.

More on Kyle McCord, 2025 NFL Draft

Below you can read Kyle McCord’s full 2025 NFL Draft declaration, which he shared to social media on Friday afternoon.

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— Kyle McCord (@kylemccord16) January 10, 2025

“One year can truly change your life. First and foremost, I want to thank God for giving me the ability to play the sport that I love. It has been an incredible journey to this point. Throughout the entire process, one thing has stayed consistent, and that is my family’s love and support. Having you guys in my corner means the world. I hope to continue to make you all proud,” McCord wrote.

“Coach Fran Brown. I will forever be grateful for your constant belief and trust in me during my time at Syracuse. You changed my life, brought me closer to God, and allowed me to tap into my full potential as a player. Our relationship is one that I will always cherish. To Coach Nixon and Coach Nunz, words cannot describe how appreciative l am of you both. You pushed me everyday to be the best version of myself and never allowed me to settle for anything less. You two are a huge reason why this season was so special and the lessons l learned will help carry me moving forward. To the rest of the coaches, trainers, strength and support staff. Thank you. All of your efforts and positive energy in the building was a significant factor in our overall success.

“To my brothers, despite only playing one season together, the bonds that we formed will last a lifetime. From the first early winter morning mat drill, to the last game of the season, it was truly an honor to compete and share the field together. Playing in the Dome will be some of my best memories. A lot of that is because of the fans. You welcomed me with open arms and your unwavering love and support inspired us all season long.

“As continue my journey forward, I am officially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft. This has been my lifelong dream, and I’m incredibly blessed to be able to go chase it. I’ll forever bleed orange.”

On3’s Chandler Vessels contributed to this article.