​Sep 5, 2026; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange linebacker Antoine Deslauriers (5) in action during the second half against the New Hampshire Wildcats at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect While there’s still a month left in the 2026 Syracuse Orange football season, it isn’t too early to start looking ahead.After a rollercoaster seven games so far, fans have seen which players have stood out and boast the potential to be building blocks moving forward. The TNIAAM gathered to figure out which names are worth keeping around beyond 2026:Who is the most important offensive player Syracuse should prioritize retaining?Kevin: I want to say a quarterback but I’m going to take Calvin Russell. He’s good size, hands, and when you have a recruit of his caliber who is all in on the program that can be a big draw.Christian: Calvin Russell. He already looks like a player who can play with any quarterback and produce. And the intangibles of his leadership as a true freshman seem to have a profound impact.Dom: Russell. Easily the foundation for any theory of next year’s offense, and recruiting the top names is important, but so is keeping them.Max: Russell. It is a miracle how fast he got back from his injury and he has proven himself to be one of the best young talents in college football as a whole. It is a necessity that Fran Brown sways him away from bigger schools that’ll come knocking with lots of money.Tanner: Russell. His presence has already been felt big time and can transform this Orange offense for years to come. It’s also important for Fran to prove he can retain talent, as Brown recruits high level talent, proving he can keep the highest rated recruit in SU’s history will be a tall task if he keeps ascending the rest of the year. On offense, who’s an underrated keeper?Kevin: Daunte Bacheyie. He’s shown an ability to be a weapon in the passing game and while he’s not a full time TE, the local product makes a great compliment to Russell. Christian: Amari Odom and/or Malachi Nelson. Someone is going to be the starter. Whoever the backup is going to be should be a keeper as well. Whoever loses the job will probably want to go somewhere to start. However, we’ve already seen the value of having multiple quarterbacks available.Dom: Ahmad Miller. He’s been the essential and clear No. 2 in the running-back-by-committee approach, with Tylik Hill leading the charge. But if Hill gets a bag or departs, Miller may very well be the starter next year.Max: Odom. He was a confident starter in his one game against UConn, and unfortunately did not get to prove himself any further as he wound up being out for the season following that. He is an experienced QB that is a great player to build upon next season under center.Tanner: Daunte Bacheyie. The CBA(Syracuse) product is currently second on the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. His length and size is very similar