Syracuse special teams coordinator James Vollono is not expected to return for the 2025 season, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Sunday.
The Orange ranked last in the ACC in field goal percentage and 110th overall in Pro Football Focus grading.
Vollono joined Syracuse in January 2024 after two seasons at Troy and previous roles at Georgia, FIU, and the CFL’s Edmonton Elks. Despite his experience, Syracuse’s special teams consistently underperformed. The unit cycled through three kickers, converting just 13-of-22 field goal attempts (59%), the lowest in the ACC.
Key struggles began against Georgia Tech, where a mishandled onside kick and blocked field goal and punt proved costly. Similar issues arose against Holy Cross, with three missed field goals, and UNLV, where two blocked punts, including one returned for a touchdown, highlighted ongoing weaknesses.
Despite improvements late in the season, the Holiday Bowl saw more failures: a blocked punt returned for a touchdown, a missed field goal, and 132 kick return yards allowed.
Vollono’s departure marks the first coaching change following Syracuse’s first bowl win since 2018 and a 10-win season.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].