The USC Trojans are gearing up for a promising 2026 season. They’ve got a blend of returning experience and impactful transfers.
Coach Lincoln Riley is at the helm. The team’s got its eye on a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).
There are 15 starters coming back, plus several key additions through the transfer portal. The Trojans look ready to make some noise.
The schedule’s tough. They really can’t afford to lose more than two games in the regular season if they want to keep those CFP hopes alive.
Let’s take a closer look at which transfers could make an immediate difference for USC this year.
Key Offensive Transfers
The Trojans’ offense gets a boost from some talented transfers. These new faces bring both experience and a fresh spark.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava lost his top targets to the NFL. So, these additions are crucial to keeping the offense on track.
Terrell Anderson: Wide Receiver
Former NC State wide receiver Terrell Anderson brings much-needed size and experience to USC’s wide receiver room. He’s listed at 6-2, 200 pounds and last season caught 39 passes for 629 yards and 5 touchdowns with the Wolfpack.
His arrival matters, especially since Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane left for the NFL. Anderson joins a receiver corps led by Tanook Hines, and freshmen Kayden Dixon-Wyatt and Trent Mosley could see early snaps too.
Tucker Ashcraft: Tight End
Transfer tight end Tucker Ashcraft adds some real experience to the Trojans. He played three seasons at Wisconsin and can block or catch passes.
Injuries limited him to just four games in 2025, and he missed some time with USC in the spring. Still, his experience could be a game-changer.
The tight end group is a bit of a mystery heading into 2026. But with Ashcraft and five-star recruit Mark Bowman, USC’s got some intriguing options.
Defensive Reinforcements
USC’s defense is getting a lift too. A few key transfers bring leadership, experience, and a bit of swagger.
Alex VanSumeren: Defensive Lineman
Former Michigan State defensive lineman Alex VanSumeren is already making waves at USC. He was invited to Big Ten Media Days with coach Riley and other team leaders, which says a lot about his role.
VanSumeren finished the 2025 season with 52 tackles and 1.5 sacks for the Spartans. His run-stopping skills will matter, especially with Jahkeem Stewart and Jamaal Jarrett also on the defensive line.
Jontez Williams: Defensive Back
Former Iowa State defensive back Jontez Williams is working his way back from an ACL tear. Once he’s healthy, he’s expected to play a big part in USC’s secondary.
In 2024, Williams grabbed 4 interceptions, broke up 5 passes, and had 46 tackles. There’s competition from guys like Chasen Johnson, Marcelles Williams, and Elbert Hill, but Williams brings a lot to the table.
Deven Bryant: Linebacker
Former Washington linebacker Deven Bryant could plug a big hole in the middle of USC’s defense under new coordinator Gary Patterson. Bryant had a breakout season for the Huskies in 2025, racking up 63 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 2 pass breakups.
His tackling could really help shore up the Trojans’ run defense. That’s something they’ve needed for a while.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season
The USC Trojans have a solid mix of returning veterans and some intriguing transfers. Honestly, they’re shaping up to be real contenders for a College Football Playoff spot.
The schedule, though, looks pretty tough. Realistically, they can only drop two games in the regular season if they want to keep those CFP dreams alive.
So much of this season comes down to how quickly these new faces can gel with the rest of the squad. Will the transfers step up and deliver when it matters most?
For more on each transfer and what they might bring to the table, check out the full article on Sports Illustrated.
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