What Does the Future Hold for a Top Syracuse Player?

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Syracuse football concluded its first week of training camp practice this week, with the Orange hoping to return to the success of the 2024 season. That was head coach Fran Brown's first campaign, which ended with a 10-3 record and a win in the Holiday Bowl.

Chris Peal, entering his fourth season of college football but second with Syracuse, didn't taste that success. In his 2025 debut season, the Orange were 3-9, but Peal stood out. The defensive back, who could wind up being the star of the 2026 roster, recorded 47 tackles, seven pass breakups and a forced fumble in 12 games (all starts).

Peal is a redshirt junior, giving him two more seasons of eligibility. It is expected, however, that this will be the final college season for Peal.

How does a new DC help his potential NFL future?

In chatting with reporters, Peal discussed what he expects from new defensive coordinator Vince Kehres, as well as his track record of producing NFL players — especially in the secondary.

"He plays to player's strengths," Peal said of Kehres. "He knows what he is doing. He does it so well. The scheme is so sound. He puts everyone where they can be their best."

Six defensive backs from Toledo, where Kehres previously was the defensive coordinator, are on NFL training camp rosters. 

Peal's name is already being featured on multiple national websites as a potential first-round pick.     

It is likely that after a season under Kehres' tutelage, Peal's draft status could go even higher. 

Preseason accolades for Chris Peal 

Peal was named to the East-West Shrine Watch List, a list that features 1,000 of the top players in college football who are projected to play professionally.   

Along with that, Peal has been voted a preseason All-ACC selection from the conference's media members and was selected by Phil Steele to his All-ACC teams by a national magazine. 

On Saturday, the Sporting News named him a second-team All-American.

Why Chris Peal now wears No. 12

Last season, Peal wore No. 16 on his jersey. His preferred No. 12 was taken by senior Justus Ross-Simmons on offense and Anwar Sparrow on defense. With those players departed, Peal reclaimed his old number

In 2022, Peal spoke about why the number 12 has such significance in his life. 

According to DawgNation, a site that covers Peal's former school, Georgia, Peal said it is in honor of his late brother, A.J. Peal.

"Iā€™m wearing his number actually. No. 12. Thatā€™s his number. I hold it close to my heart. He passed away last year in August due to some gun violence. Iā€™m really playing for my brother. I want to be great for him. I want to make it to the league for him. I pray to him every day."

What's the immediate future for Peal?

Peal and his teammates will continue preseason practices throughout August. Following the conclusion of training camp, the Orange will begin a week of preparation for its Sept. 5 opener. The game is set for noon ET at the JMA Wireless Dome. 

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