The USC Trojans have made a significant move ahead of the next season by re-signing defensive tackle Jide Abasiri. This announcement, made on Tuesday, highlights the Trojans” commitment to strengthening their defense as they prepare for 2026.
Entering his third season with USC, Abasiri has shown considerable growth since joining the program as a three-star recruit from the 2024 class. After participating in ten games during his freshman year and recording seven tackles, he made a notable leap in his sophomore season, totaling 26 tackles and one forced fumble. His performance included 3.5 sacks, placing him third on the team, trailing only defensive ends Braylan Shelby and Kameryn Crawford.
One of Abasiri”s standout performances came against the UCLA Bruins, where he recorded 1.5 sacks. As he enters his junior year, Abasiri is anticipated to take on a leadership role within a young defensive unit, especially following the departure of defensive tackle Devan Thompkins to the transfer portal.
The Trojans have faced challenges with player departures to the NFL Draft and the transfer portal, making Abasiri”s re-signing crucial for their defensive strategy. His development hints at a potential breakout season, which could enhance USC”s defensive capabilities.
In addition to Abasiri, the defensive line will benefit from the return of several key players, including Shelby, Crawford, and defensive end Jahkeem Stewart. Stewart, a promising talent from the 2025 recruiting class, had an impressive freshman campaign despite dealing with a stress fracture in his foot. He managed to record 11 tackles, one interception, and 1.5 sacks while playing through injury.
The Trojans have also added depth by signing eight defensive linemen in the 2026 recruiting class, featuring four-star prospects such as Luke Wafle and Jaimeon Winfield. These new recruits are expected to contribute early in their college careers, providing the Trojans with a strong mix of experience and youthful energy on the defense.
As USC navigates the offseason, the combination of returning veterans like Abasiri and emerging talents could play a pivotal role in their pursuit of a College Football Playoff appearance. Additionally, with the recent departure of defensive coordinator D”Anton Lynn to Penn State, USC is actively seeking a new coordinator to further enhance their defensive strategies.
Finding a candidate who can maximize the potential of a roster filled with both seasoned players and newcomers will be essential as the Trojans aim to elevate their defensive performance in the upcoming season.
