Aaron Hackett Enters Transfer Portal
The first offseason domino for Syracuse football may have fallen as starting tight end Aaron Hackett has entered the transfer portal according to a report from 247Sports. Hackett started all 11 games this past season, but managed only 10 receptions for 63 yards and two touchdowns. Hackett was a senior during the 2020 campaign, but has one more year of eligibility remaining due to the NCAA giving players one more year as a result of the pandemic.
Hackett subsequently confirmed the news, and provided the following statement.
“I am extremely grateful for my time at Syracuse University these last three and a half years,” Hackett said. “I am truly honored to have played for such a historically great program with such amazing fan support. I am appreciative of Coach Babers and Coach Reno Ferri for taking a chance on me four years ago and giving me the opportunity to represent Syracuse University. I have met so many amazing people here and created friendships that will last a life time. I am extremely grateful for all my teammates who battled through this adversity this season and did not stop fighting until the end. To all those who supported me through the highs and lows over the last 4 seasons, I cannot express my gratitude deeply enough. Although I am unsure of my next step, I will not be returning to Syracuse for the 2021 season. However, I will always be part of the Syracuse Orange family. Thank you!”
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During 2020, Hackett had multiple receptions in only two games and was catchless in three. Under new offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert, the tight position was targeted far fewer times than in years' past. As a junior, Hackett had 23 catches and six touchdowns. He leaves Syracuse tied for the most touchdown receptions by a tight end in school history with nine. He is tied with Nick Provo.
The Orange had a down year in 2020 with a 1-10 record. They had two new coordinators, but spring football was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The 2020 season was also marred but an abnormal abundance of injuries. Syracuse was down 27 scholarship players entering their regular season finale against Notre Dame. The Orange were missing their starting quarterback, backup quarterback, top four running backs, three starting safeties and other key reserves.
That led to many freshmen seeing action and gaining invaluable experience. Now Syracuse has to make that experience mean something with an offseason to bolster the roster.
