Does Fran Brown have an in-house replacement ready to go?
With the Syracuse Orange preparing for spring practice, Fran Brown has another opening on his staff to fill.
GM Nate McNeal has returned to Illinois to become the Illini’s Executive Director of Player Evaluations and Acquisitions.
Syracuse GM Nate McNeal is returning to Illinois as executive director of player evaluations and acquisitions, working with GM Pat Embleton.
McNeal has worked with the Illini twice previously, most recently as player personnel director in 2023. pic.twitter.com/4yFLeTLIJ2
— Matt Fortuna (@Matt_Fortuna) February 19, 2025
This will be McNeal’s third time at Illinois and a return home to the state where he grew up, While his time at Syracuse was short, McNeal helped the Orange land a top transfer class which propelled the team to the 10-3 season.
It might not take Fran long to find McNeal’s replacement. Per a report from Mike McAllister, a current staff member could be promoted for the role.
NEWS: Syracuse football expected to look to Tommy Caporale for its General Manager position. The GM title was held by Nate McNeal last season, and he was announced as the new GM at Illinois moments ago. Details ⬇️ https://t.co/kEjcFlg1qX
— Mike McAllister (@McAllisterMike1) February 19, 2025
Caporale joined the Orange last year after serving as a high school coach in Miami. He’s a New Jersey native and we know those Garden State connections are important to the program. We’ll see if the GM position is filled internally or if Fran will bring someone else in from outside the program.