USC Football Injury Report: Cameron Smith near return to action (8/16)

Cameron Smith and a number of other Trojans showed progress in their bid to return to action on Thursday. Here’s the USC football injury report for August 16.

By the time USC football opens up their mock game week on Monday, the squad could look a lot more healthy. At least, that’s what head coach Clay Helton was hoping on Thursday.

“Getting ready to get a couple guys back,” Helton said after Day 12 of Fall Camp practice.

Cameron Smith was one of the biggest bright spots, returning to 7-on-7 action after spending the last week recovering from a tight hamstring.

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The senior linebacker won’t be participating in Saturday’s scrimmage, but he showed just how close he is to a full return on Thursday.

“We’re kind of having to try to hold him back right now,” Helton said. “He’s feeling good.”

Safety Ykili Ross is also nearing a return. On Wednesday he was able to sprint at full speed and should be ready to reintegrate into the lineup next week.

Tackle Clayton Johnston was held again on Thursday, though his status for Saturday is unknown. The back injury keeping him out is not meant to be serious at least.

Fellow tackle Austin Jackson saw some time again as he works to get back from an ankle injury, but he continues to be limited.

Both offensive linemen are expected to take part in practice by next week.

Tight end Erik Krommenhoek was able to do some light work, also coming back from a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, freshman cornerback Chase Williams was able to practice on Thursday.

USC Football Injury Report:

• Out for the season: LB Tayler Katoa (LDS Mission)
• Out: LB Oluwole Betiku (hip), OL Clayton Bradley (back), LB Palaie Gaoteote (knee), LB Porter Gustin (knee), WR Josh Imatorbhebhe (ankle), DL Liam Jimmons (toe), TE Erik Krommenhoek (hamstring), DL Jacob Lichtenstein (calf), WR Michael Pittman (nose/shoulder), S Ykili Ross (hamstring), WR Jake Russell (hamstring), RB Markese Stepp (concussion), LB Solomon Tuliaupupu (foot), OL Andrew Vorhees (knee),
• Limited: TE Daniel Imatorbhebhe (hip), OL Austin Jackson (ankle), LB Levi Jones (ankle), LB Cameron Smith (hamstring), Keyshawn “Pie” Young (undisclosed)

Helton also updated the status of defensive lineman Liam Jimmons, who is dealing with turf toe, or a sprained toe, and will likely miss a week as a precaution.