After a challenging 2024 season at USC, head coach Lincoln Riley is hitting the recruiting trail hard in an effort to secure the future of the Trojans. One standout prospect who has caught his attention is 2026 cornerback recruit Elbert Hill. The fact that Hill traveled all the way from Ohio to California for an official visit to USC speaks volumes about his interest in the program.
Hill’s trip was not just a casual visit; it was a significant step in his recruitment process. His positive experiences during the visit, which he shared on X/Twitter, reflect a budding relationship with the Trojans. For Riley, who is under pressure to improve his record, this could be a promising sign as he seeks to bolster the team’s roster.
USC’s 2026 recruiting class is shaping up
As of now, USC has already secured eight commitments for its 2026 recruiting class, which is currently ranked as the fourth-best in the nation by 247sports. The crown jewel of this class is Georgia athlete Xavier Griffin, who is regarded as the top linebacker in the 2026 class. Griffin chose USC over a host of elite programs, solidifying the Trojans’ standing in the recruiting landscape. He is currently ranked as the No. 8 player in the nation in his recruiting class.
But Griffin isn’t the only exciting addition. USC has also landed commitments from two other top-100 cornerbacks: RJ Sermons and Brandon Lockhart. Sermons is ranked as the 52nd-best player in the nation and the fourth-best cornerback, while Lockhart stands at 81st overall and is the eighth-best cornerback prospect. This influx of talent is crucial for Riley, who needs to demonstrate that he can attract elite players to USC.
Lincoln Riley’s recruiting challenges
Despite the promising recruiting class, Riley finds himself in a precarious position. With a 26-14 record over three seasons, including a disappointing 7-6 finish in 2024, he is undoubtedly on the hot seat. The pressure is mounting for him to turn things around, and the success of the 2025 recruiting class, which was ranked 13th nationally, is a step in the right direction. Notably, this class included five-star quarterback Husan Longstreet, a player who could be pivotal for the Trojans moving forward.
The stakes are high for Riley as he navigates the complexities of college football recruiting. He has already made significant strides, but the addition of players like Hill could be the key to solidifying his position at USC. With Hill being a four-star recruit ranked as the No. 96 prospect nationally and the 11th-best cornerback, his commitment would be a major win for the Trojans.
Elbert Hill’s impressive profile
Elbert Hill hails from Archbishop Hoban High in Akron, Ohio, and he has garnered attention from numerous top-tier programs. His impressive skill set has earned him offers from Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, Michigan, and Alabama, among others. Hill has already taken unofficial visits to Alabama and Tennessee, showcasing his commitment to exploring his options. However, his visit to USC indicates a serious interest in joining the Trojans.
Hill’s journey across the country to visit USC is significant. It demonstrates that Riley is serious about adding top talent to his roster, especially as he looks to build a strong 2026 class. With the Trojans already boasting a talented group of recruits, adding Hill could further enhance their prospects for the future.
The importance of recruiting for USC
Recruiting is the lifeblood of any college football program, and for USC, it is no different. The Trojans have a storied history and a reputation for producing NFL talent, but recent seasons have seen them struggle to maintain that elite status. The ability to attract top recruits like Hill is essential for Riley to restore USC to its former glory.
In a competitive landscape where programs are constantly vying for the best talent, securing commitments from players like Hill can make a significant difference. It not only strengthens the roster but also sends a message to other recruits that USC is a destination for aspiring athletes.
As USC continues to build its 2026 recruiting class, the focus will remain on attracting top-tier talent. With eight commitments already in place and the potential for more, the Trojans are positioning themselves for success in the coming years.
What do you think of Riley’s recruiting efforts at USC? Will he be able to turn the program around and reclaim its place among college football’s elite? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!