USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley is placing significant trust in his young linebacker corps as the team prepares for the 2025 season.
With the departure of leading tacklers Mason Cobb and Easton Mascarenas-Arnold to the NFL Draft, Riley is turning to redshirt freshman Jadyn Walker to step into a more prominent role.
During recent media sessions, Riley expressed confidence in Walker’s development and readiness to contribute significantly on the field.
In addition to Walker, fellow redshirt freshman Desman Stephens II has also garnered praise from Riley during the Trojans’ spring practices.
The emergence of these young players is crucial as USC looks to rebuild its linebacker unit. While Riley has shown a preference for developing talent from within, the team is also exploring options in the transfer portal to bolster the roster.
Notably, USC hosted Penn State transfer linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson, who is considered a top prospect in the portal.
Overall, Riley’s approach combines nurturing homegrown talent like Walker and Stephens with strategic additions from the transfer market, aiming to strengthen the team’s defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
