5-star Elbert Hill further bolsters No. 1 USC recruiting class of 2026

Stopping the other team's offense from scoring and getting the football back to his offense, there isn't too much else that USC looks for in its defenders. Particularly forcing turnovers, the Trojans want to have athletes who can switch over possession to give extra drives for what they expect will be a high-powered unit.

This need and desire took another big step on Friday when On3's Hayes Fawcett announced that 5-star defensive back Elbert Hill has committed to USC. The Archbishop Hoban high schooler is part of the class of 2026 out of Akron, Ohio. Not only did the Trojans earn his eventual decision over Oregon and Alabama, but they also beat out his more local university, Ohio State.

This is a choice that many sensed Hill was leaning toward. He has visited the USC campus a number of times. As he said in a shared post on X that included a picture of him and his family with coach Lincoln Riley:

"USC definitely made me feel like an top priority."

It's this ability to welcome top recruits in the country and show something of a unique approach, in terms of recruiting, that is seeing a lot of success in this department for the Trojans. Even in the case when some athletes elect to opt for different schools, USC leaves a positive impression in the minds of those who visit.

Either way, that aspect doesn't necessarily apply to Hill, as he is ready to make the trip from Akron to Los Angeles when his college journey begins as a Trojan. For a program that has the No. 1 class, securing another top talent at his position and overall only further elevates the future position that USC will find itself in.

Impressive skill set and heart from USC commit

When watching Hill play, his playmaking and speed instantly stand out. What is, furthermore, clear is how much energy and passion he has for the sport. From plays that others would have given up on in coverage to finding the nose of the football, the USC commit adds a much-needed element on defense that any coach would want on their roster.

It's still a year away. He'll finish out his senior H.S. season with Archbishop Hoban, but among a number of recent commits, Hill's will further excite a fan base that will be eager to watch him patrol the secondaries.