Another NJ recruit heads north
The Syracuse Orange continue to build a talented 2026 recruiting class. Yesterday, safety Zaiden McDonald from Newark, NJ committed to the Orange.
AGTG!! Extremely excited to announce my commitment to SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY! Blessed and thankful for this opportunity and looking forward to the next chapter of my Athletic and Academic Journey! @BigBody_Nas8 @FranBrownCuse @CuseFootball @SWiltfong_ @TheJuiceOnline… pic.twitter.com/2ypNIAtkcE
— Zaiden McDonald (@ZaidenMcdonald) March 31, 2025
The 6’1 safety from Malcolm Shabazz HS chose Syracuse over offers from Penn State, Ohio State, Pittsburgh, North Carolina among others. McDonald is currently rated three stars but with the offer list, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him rise a bit over the next few months.
McDonald becomes the 4th top 600 commitment for Syracuse in the 2026 class, which is ranked 10th by 247 and 31st by On3. Here’s a look at him in action: