Syracuse defensive lineman Josh Black set the record straight Tuesday morning, refuting a report by The Athletic on Monday that he was entering the transfer portal, announcing on Twitter that he is instead returning to SU for a sixth season next year.
I’ve got unfinished business I need to take care of. pic.twitter.com/wy0RcKR9W3
— Joshua Black (@jnblack85) December 8, 2020
In his statement, the fifth-year senior said he’s going to take advantage of the NCAA’s decision to grant an extra year of eligibility because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also said he considers it his duty to get the Orange, who finished 1-10 this season, back on track. The Athletic report indicated he might have been considering transferring to Indiana, where his older brother is on the coaching staff.
Black was a member of Dino Babers’ first recruiting class in 2016, and had his best season as a junior in 2019, posting 39 tackles, six of them for a loss, including four quarterback sacks. Black had 38 more stops this season, including two QB sacks, and his first career interception.
The Chicago-area native was one of three senior starters on the defensive line this season, and his current start streak stands at 24 consecutive games.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].