Multi-gold and platinum-selling rapper Toosii is preparing to trade the recording booth for the football field as he pursues a spot on the Syracuse University football team, announcing the decision to fans as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. The 25-year-old artist, whose real name is Nau’Jour Grainger, shared an emotional message on social media encouraging others to chase their dreams and crediting faith for guiding his path. Born in Syracuse and raised there until moving to North Carolina at age 12, Toosii said the opportunity to return to his hometown and suit up for the Orange carries deep personal meaning. He publicly thanked second-year head coach Fran Brown for opening the door, saying the call felt like a sign that it was time to come home after more than a decade away.
Toosii attended Rolesville High School in North Carolina, where he was listed as a 5-foot-6 wide receiver and kick returner during the fall of 2016, though he did not appear on the following season’s roster. A recruiting site later described him as a 5-foot-9, 165-pound receiver committed to Syracuse, and Toosii has said he drew interest from several major programs before choosing his hometown school. His current football readiness remains uncertain, as it is unclear how much organized football he has played in recent years. Under NCAA rules, the university has not commented on his status, though national signing day could soon clarify his standing. If he plans to join the team next season, he would likely need to enroll for the spring term and participate in spring practice, with his scholarship status still unknown. The Orange are coming off a difficult 3–9 season in 2025 after a strong 10–3 campaign in 2024, and are set to open the 2026 season against New Hampshire. Outside of football, Toosii arrives with major star power, owning five gold and two platinum records, highlighted by hits like “Love Cycle” and “Favorite Song,” and he joins a short list of athletes who have crossed between music and major college sports.