A Wish List for USC Football in the Transfer Portal This Christmas
USC Football: Transfer Portal Wishlist for 2026
As the college football season draws to a close, attention turns to what lies ahead for the University of Southern California (USC). With just ten days until Christmas, the urgency to prepare for the upcoming transfer portal season has become increasingly apparent.
Offensive Line Needs Improvement
USC’s offensive line returns several starters, including left tackle Elijah Paige, left guard Tobias Raymond, center Kilian O’Connor, right guard Alani Noa, and right tackle Justin Tauanuu. Expected returners also include Elijah Vaikona, Aaron Dunn, Alex Payne, and Kaylon Miller, with newcomers like OT Keenyi Pepe and OG Esun Tafa. Despite injuries hampering the line’s performance last season, offensive line coach Zach Hanson managed to navigate these challenges effectively. However, an upgrade in the interior remains crucial, especially considering last year’s pursuit of a transfer center, J’Onre Reed, proved unsuccessful.
Wide Receivers Facing Changes
In the receiver corps, only Tanook Hines returns as a starter, alongside expected returners Zacharyus Williams and Corey Simms. With standout Makai Lemon heading to the NFL and speculation surrounding Ja’Kobi Lane’s departure, USC faces a significant gap. Hines shows promise, but the team will likely need to recruit additional starting talent. Several freshmen, including Trent Mosley, may step up in this capacity.
Cornerback Position Needs Attention
The cornerback position also requires significant rebuilding. Marcelles Williams returns as a starter, joined by Chasen Johnson and others expected to contribute. Injuries last season left the secondary lacking, and with some corners moving on, USC must capitalize on available talent in the transfer portal, particularly for a lockdown outside corner.
Defensive Line Improvement
The interior defensive line needs reinforcements as well, with returning starters Devan Thompkins and Jide Abasiri. Emerging players Jahkeem Stewart and Floyd Boucard demonstrated potential despite injuries. However, the team recognizes the need for a formidable run-stopper to be effective in their upcoming season.
Linebacker Concerns Post-Gentry
At linebacker, the loss of Eric Gentry leaves a leadership gap. Desman Stephens returns but faced challenges in his first season. USC is likely to pursue both experienced transfers and young talent, with notable interest in North Carolina’s Khmori House and anticipation surrounding top-100 recruit Talanoa Ili.
Makai Lemon’s Achievements
Makai Lemon recently solidified his status as one of college football’s elite receivers by winning the Biletnikoff Award. His performance, totaling 79 catches and 11 touchdowns this season, stands out, though he ranks outside the top ten in several historical categories for the program. Lemon’s yard-per-catch ability demonstrates his impact, even if he doesn’t appear statistically dominant.
Extra Points & Future Outlook
Waymond Jordan’s return for the 2026 season is promising for USC’s rushing attack, creating a powerful duo alongside King Miller. Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s declining scheduling leverage could enhance USC’s position in future negotiations, particularly regarding their rivalry series. Additionally, the Trojans have added a non-conference game against Louisiana in 2026.
In basketball, Chad Baker-Mazara has emerged as a key player, leading the Big Ten in scoring while maintaining high efficiency. Meanwhile, the USC community remains affected by recent tragedies, with head coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressing concern in the wake of a shooting at her alma mater, Brown University.
Finally, a recent poll indicated that linebacker reinforcements topped fans’ wish lists, demonstrating the urgency felt by the USC community as they look towards the future.
