Rapper Toosii is switching fields—literally. The multi-platinum recording artist has announced he’s pursuing his long-standing dream of playing college football by committing to Syracuse University.
At 25, Toosii, born Nau’Jour Grainger, is already a heavyweight in the rap game with chart-topping singles and two studio albums to his name. But before he was known for hits like “Favorite Song,” he was catching passes on the football field as a high school receiver. Now, he’s ready to run it back—this time with the Syracuse Orange.
The artist made his intentions public on Monday via social media, saying he felt a divine calling after speaking with Syracuse head coach Fran Brown. A source close to the situation confirmed Toosii’s commitment, though it remains uncertain whether he’s been offered a scholarship or will join the team as a walk-on.
Toosii, who grew up in Syracuse before relocating to Raleigh, North Carolina, has been steadily exploring his return to football. His journey included an official visit to Maryland in August, followed by a more recent trip to Syracuse, where he attended the Orange’s final game of a tough season.
The visit included a photo shoot in a Syracuse No. 2 jersey, giving fans a glimpse of what might be next for the rapper-turned-athlete. Syracuse’s season ended on a sour note with a 34-12 loss to Boston College, capping a 3-9 record under Brown, who is now entering his third year as head coach.
Toosii rose to fame in 2023 with the single “Favorite Song,” which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot Rap Songs chart. His two albums, Poetic Pain and Naujour, both hit the top 20 on U.S. charts, with the latter earning a gold certification. He’s also worked with heavy hitters like Wiz Khalifa, DaBaby, and Khalid.
Now, with cleats laced and a new goal in sight, Toosii is taking a shot at blending the worlds of hip hop and NCAA football—one verse and one route at a time.