By the numbers: Elite WR Ethan Feaster joins top USC recruiting class

Texas A&M v USC - SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl
Texas A&M v USC - SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl | David Becker/GettyImages

USC has once again added a blue-chip prospect to its top-ranked recruiting class. This time, the commitment comes from Louisiana native and DeSoto wide receiver, Ethan Feaster. We break down the key numbers you need to know about his addition to the 2026 class

1. USC remains atop the 2026 recruiting rankings, holding off a strong push from Georgia. The race is tightening, as the Bulldogs have been on a tear, closing the gap considerably. However, the recent commitment from wide receiver Ethan Foster gives the Trojans some much-needed breathing room at the top.

31. USC has now boosted its 2026 class to 31 total commitments, and that number is likely to grow. While many industry experts projected the Trojans to cap the class around 30, it’s clear that GM Chad Bowden and head coach Lincoln Riley are keeping their foot on the gas. At this rate, the final number could be closer to 35 than 30.

2027. Ethan Feaster becomes the second pass catcher in USC’s 2026 class, joining tight end Mark Bowman, both of whom reclassified from the 2027 cycle. While each saw a dip in their rankings due to the reclassification, it doesn’t change the reality that Lincoln Riley has landed one of the most talented wide receivers in the country, adding another dynamic weapon to USC’s future offense.

Continued recruiting success in SEC territory for SEC

Feaster is ranked as a top-five wide receiver in the 2026 class, according to On3. He’s also considered a top 45 overall prospect nationally and currently stands as the third-highest-rated commit in USC’s 2026 class.

3. Feaster’s commitment brings the number of Texas recruits in USC’s 2027 class to three, and marks the 14th out-of-state commitment overall.

Overall, this commitment kept USC at the top of the class and created some much-needed separation at the top. USC remains on track to become the first program in the NIL era to claim the No. 1 class outside of the SEC.