TLDR: USC football made significant strides in strengthening its defensive lineup during the 2025 early signing period by securing commitments from 21 high school talents. Under the guidance of Eric Henderson, who joined the coaching staff after the 2023 NFL season, the Trojans achieved a major victory by signing Jahkeem Stewart from New Orleans, a significant win over LSU. USC’s defensive recruits include players from various states, with highlights such as Floyd Boucard from Miami and Gus Cordova from Texas. The additions of Alex Graham, James Johnson, and other promising defenders indicate a broad recruiting strategy targeting key positions. Despite Matt Entz’s departure to Fresno State, USC managed to maintain commitments, showcasing the coaching staff’s ability to rally and secure essential talent for the upcoming seasons.

In a notable triumph for USC football, the early signing period of 2025 has brought a wave of promising players to Southern California. Demonstrating a strategic focus on bolstering its defense, the Trojans have welcomed 21 high school athletes into their ranks. Of particular note this signing period is Jahkeem Stewart from New Orleans, adding a landmark victory over LSU to Eric Henderson’s tenure with USC’s coaching staff.

Eric Henderson, pivotal to this successful recruitment effort, associated with USC following the 2023 NFL season’s closure. Despite joining the Trojan camp after the opportunity to engage with prospects had largely passed, his impact was undeniable. Henderson’s reputation for recruiting excellence shone through with Stewart’s signing, validating the calculated decision by Lincoln Riley and D’Anton Lynn to bring him on despite potential delays. A foresight that seems to be paying off as USC anticipates enjoying the defensive fortifications brought by Stewart and the broader class.

The class showcases a diverse set of talents, spanning from Florida to California. Floyd Boucard, a defensive lineman from Miami, exemplifies USC’s growing allure, having eschewed both a local commitment to Miami and an initial pledge to Oklahoma. Similarly, Gus Cordova’s arrival from Austin strengthens a critical area for the Trojans, their defensive line, pointing to strategic national recruitment endeavors.

Additionally, standout defensive back Alex Graham switched his allegiance from Colorado, adding a feather to USC’s cap in snatching talent from rivals under Deion Sanders. James Johnson and Steve Miller, both hailing from Georgia, bolster the secondary, aligning with a broader Southern recruitment strategy that holds considerable promise.

Key movements in coaching staff, such as Matt Entz’s transition to Fresno State, did little to jeopardize USC’s recruiting successes. Despite potential disruptions, Matai Tagoa’i from San Clemente remains committed to the Trojans, signaling faith in the coaching prowess of D’Anton Lynn. As USC also welcomes other Southern recruits such as Kendarius Reddick, their multifaceted strategy suggests that the Trojans are set on fortifying their defense, aiming to elevate their prospects in upcoming seasons.