4-star commit Esun Tafa is already making a strong impact on USC program

Coach Lincoln Riley has expressed how important it is for USC to win in the trenches. Since arriving, he and the staff had made that a continued point of emphasis to improve. Now, after a number of talented athletes up front and a series of strong recruiting classes, it looks like the Trojans are on the cusp of truly making a dominant mark on college football.

This upward trajectory is perfectly represented in Esun Tafa. A commit from the class of 2026, the lineman understands the legacy of the program and how important building the right type of atmosphere in the building is to a winning program. A four-star athlete out of Corner Canyon, Utah, Tafa is about as impressive as they come.

He plays at left tackle for his high school team. On any given play, he could end up anywhere. From pulling tackle to sealing the edge to going out in front on a screen pass, Tafa shows his power and dynamism on every down. It's clear why schools like Washington, Oregon, and Utah made a strong push for him.

Now a Trojan, Tafa is already contributing to the brotherhood, as he describes it, that is forming within the USC program. Speaking on the Light The Torch Podcast, he disclosed that he was working behind the scenes to convince fellow linemen Malaki Lee and Keenyi Pepe to join the OL room with him.

Although since then, the IMG Academy product, Pepe, has announced his commitment, Lee remains someone who Tafa will likely continue to work to join him on the LA campus in a year. Either way, regardless of what transpires between now and 2026, the dedication and willingness of Tafa are more than admirable.

An understanding of what USC greatness looks like

It shows a level of awareness and maturity to take ownership in trying to attract further big-time talent to an already outstanding recruiting class. Tafa mentioned some of the former greats who walked through the Coliseum, such as Junior Seau and Troy Polamalu. For him, continuing to build on the family dynamic and representing the strong Polynesian tradition as a member of the Trojans are important aspects of his future collegiate career.

As mentioned, there is still an H.S. senior year for him to play. There is, however, an understandable amount of excitement and great anticipation of high-level talents like Tafa coming to USC and making an impact in the Cardinal and Gold.