Critical injury update to USC defensive lineman puts game status in jeopardy

There is a tremendous amount of anticipation for the USC debut of Jahkeem Stewart. The former five-star recruit and top overall recruit of his original draft class has already begun to make something of a name for himself.

Unfortunately for him, however, there may be a slight delay in his first game as a member of the Cardinal and Gold. According to a post shared on X from the LA Times' Ryan Kartje, there is a good chance that Stewart will not be able to play against Missouri State. Seen walking around in a boot, the injury is being described as one that is not severely significant.

In other words, this setback is not expected to be long-term in nature. It does leave Stewart's status for the game against the Bears to be a game-time decision, though.

Considering the overall tone and way in which this setback is being reported, there does not appear to be too much cause for concern overall. If anything, this seems to be more of a precautionary measure in order to ensure that the lingering discomfort does not snowball into something serious.

USC can afford patient approach

For what it is worth, it is objectively better that this sort of development happens now. While Trojan fans would love to see him play in Week 1, sitting out and having an extra week to recover and be fully ready to go against Georgia Southern would suit Trojan fans just as well.

Regardless of when Stewart does end up seeing his first action for the Trojans, rest assured, all eyes will be on the young freshman phenom. Until then, coach Lincoln Riley is smart to exercise caution. Nothing further is added by potentially rushing Stewart back if he does not feel fully ready health-wise to compete on Saturday against the Bears. He is going to have a great career at USC. If need be, waiting an extra week will be more than worth it.