Syracuse Coach Fran Brown Discusses Trebor Pena’s Departure

Syracuse, N.Y. — Syracuse football coach Fran Brown addressed the departure of star receiver Trebor Pena, who entered the transfer portal earlier this week amid concerns about team dynamics and compensation. In a radio interview with ESPN Syracuse, Brown revealed that Pena was dissatisfied with his financial situation.

“We paid him enough,” Brown stated, clarifying that Pena had sought more money before his decision to leave for potentially greener pastures. While he did not disclose specific figures, Brown felt the demands were unrealistic. “There were some numbers that were asked of me that I didn’t feel I would be able to do everything that was needed. I just said, ‘Yo, you’ve got to go,’” he said.

Another point of contention for Pena appeared to involve the capabilities of newly appointed starting quarterback Rickie Collins Jr., a transfer from LSU. “He was questioning whether Rickie would be good enough next season,” Brown recalled. “That ain’t your freaking job to be thinking that. I ain’t got time for you to be doing all that stuff.” Brown emphasized that players should concentrate on their performance rather than worrying about positions and play effectiveness.

Collins, who spent significant time as a backup to high-profile quarterbacks at LSU, has shown promise that has won Brown’s confidence. “I’m sold with Rickie. I think we’re going to do well,” he assured fans while stressing that Collins has unique talent and a strong work ethic.

Pena led the team last season with 84 receptions for 941 yards and nine touchdowns. His decision to transfer is reminiscent of past significant player movements within college football, as players navigate new systems amid evolving team dynamics and financial expectations.

Brown reiterated his confidence in the rest of the receiver corps, including players like Darrell Gill Jr. and Justus Ross-Simmons, who will see increased opportunities in Pena’s absence. “I feel confident in the depth of Syracuse’s wide receivers room to survive without Pena,” he noted.

In light of recent developments, Brown hinted that more players might follow Pena’s lead and enter the transfer portal, indicating that as many as 10 additional players could be on their way out. This shift is part of a larger trend in college football where roster changes are frequent and sometimes abrupt.

As Syracuse prepares for the upcoming season, Brown has his sights set on not only retaining talent but also adding new players, particularly looking to bolster the linebacker position.

The atmosphere surrounding the team remains dynamic, as upcoming practices and games will showcase new formations and player roles amid this transition.