Syracuse RB/KR Malachi James intends to enter transfer portal
Syracuse running back and kick returner Malachi James intends to enter the transfer portal. He played in eight games across two years with SU. Leonardo Eriman | Photo Editor
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Syracuse running back and kick returner Malachi James intends to enter the transfer portal, he announced on social media Sunday morning. James appeared in eight games across his two seasons with the Orange.
James contributed to SU largely on the kick return. He tallied 152 yards on eight attempts last season and 16 on one in 2025 before a season-ending injury.
— Malachi James (@MrMalachiJames) December 7, 2025
The sophomore made a name for himself as a track star, dubbed the “fastest man in New Jersey.” He was rated as the No. 17 football player out of the Garden State in the 2024 class and set a state record in the 100-meter dash. James continued track and field in the 2025 spring at Syracuse, joining multiple football teammates.
With Yasin Willis and Tylik Hill expected to return to the Orange, and SU bringing in three-star recruit Shavane Anderson, James would likely struggle to find consistent playing time. He has three years of eligibility remaining.
