Back to the Syracuse Orange Newsfeed

Syracuse football: Mikel Jones, Garrett Williams return to bolster defense

The Syracuse Orange recently began spring football practice as the team prepares to move past a disappointing end to last season. Friday was the first day with pads on - and the first chance to see some familiar faces in action.

While there are a few holes to fill before the 2022 campaign gets underway, the defense looks to maintain last year’s form. This unit ranked #19 nationally in total defense (yards allowed per game) during the regular season, in large part due to the efforts of LB Mikel Jones and DB Garrett Williams. Neither was guaranteed to return to Syracuse, but both eventually decided to put off the NFL Draft for one more year.