Former NFL defensive coordinator Rob Ryan is set to make waves in college football as he joins the USC Trojans as the new linebackers coach and assistant head coach for defense. This exciting news was first reported by Ryan Kartje of the LA Times, who highlighted Ryan’s extensive background and his connection to the Trojans’ current defensive coordinator, D’Anton Lynn.
“Rob Ryan, a former NFL defensive coordinator and brother of Rex Ryan, has been named USC’s linebackers coach and assistant head coach,” Kartje tweeted. This announcement has sparked enthusiasm among fans and players alike, as Ryan brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the program.
Rob Ryan to USC, coaching under Lincoln Riley, D’Anton Lynn
Ryan’s arrival at USC marks a significant moment for the Trojans as they gear up for the 2025 season. He will be working closely with Lynn, who recently signed a contract extension with the Trojans. Lynn’s decision to stay is a massive boost for the program, especially after a season where USC allowed just 337.5 yards per game. This is a remarkable improvement compared to the 2023 campaign, where they gave up 432.8 yards per game, ranking 15th in the nation for most yards allowed.
What does this mean for the Trojans moving forward? With Lynn at the helm and Ryan joining the defensive ranks, fans can expect a more formidable defense. Lynn has already attracted attention from other programs, including Penn State, which sought his services after losing Tom Allen to Clemson. His ability to keep the Trojans competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college football is crucial.
Rob Ryan’s NFL experience
Rob Ryan’s coaching pedigree is impressive. He spent the last three seasons as a senior defensive assistant with the Las Vegas Raiders. Before that, he was the defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints from 2013 to 2015. His extensive experience in the NFL, including winning two Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots as a linebackers coach under Bill Belichick, showcases his ability to develop players and craft effective defensive schemes.
However, Ryan’s coaching journey began at the college level. The last time he coached in college football was in 1999 when he served as the defensive coordinator for Oklahoma State. Since then, he has transitioned through various roles in the NFL, but his return to college football is highly anticipated. With his NFL background, Ryan brings a fresh perspective that could elevate USC’s defense to new heights.
USC’s offseason challenges
Despite the excitement surrounding Ryan’s hiring, the Trojans face a challenging offseason. Several defensive standouts have entered the transfer portal, including EDGE Sam Greene and defensive lineman Bear Alexander. These departures leave gaps that need to be filled if USC hopes to maintain its defensive prowess.
However, the Trojans are not sitting idly by. They have already signed promising defensive talents like Keeshawn Silver and DJ Harvey, aiming to soften the blow of their losses. With Ryan and Lynn leading the charge, the coaching staff is determined to rebuild and strengthen the defense.
What lies ahead for USC?
As the Trojans prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating Ryan into the coaching staff and implementing his defensive strategies. Will his NFL experience translate to success on the college level? Fans are eager to find out.
With Ryan’s wealth of knowledge and Lynn’s established rapport with the players, the Trojans are poised for a promising season. The combination of their expertise could lead to a more aggressive and effective defense, one that can compete with the best in college football.
In a landscape where every yard counts, USC’s defensive unit will be under the microscope. The pressure is on, but with the right leadership and talent, the Trojans can rise to the occasion. The excitement is palpable as fans look forward to seeing how Ryan’s coaching will impact the team.
As the Trojans embark on this new chapter, one thing is clear: the future looks bright. With a solid coaching staff in place and a commitment to improving, USC is ready to make its mark in college football once again. The journey ahead is filled with potential, and fans are eager to cheer on their team as they strive for greatness.
