Devan Thompkins' strides will provide significant boost for USC defensive line

There are several USC players who could be highlighted who have shown signs of improvement from spring camp through the opening portion of training camp. Particularly on defense, the Trojans are looking increasingly formidable as a unit that will be able to cause issues for opposing offenses.

One player in particular who has stood out is Devan Thompkins. Entering the year as a redshirt junior, the defensive lineman is reportedly stepping up as a leader and is looking like someone who could be in a great position to be a starter. At a minimum, he is slated to be someone who will see significant snaps in coach D'Anton Lynn's unit.

His transformation is well-known at this point. Thompkins entered Troy with more of a basketball body. Through his hard work, however, he has gained approximately 70 pounds. Now with a true defensive line body, Thompkins is going to be someone who is ready to lead the front line as it embarks on its second year in the Big Ten.

As shared on X by USCFootball.com's Connor Morrissette, coach Lynn believes that Thompkins is the most improved player on the roster to this point. Certainly, something like what has been witnessed inspires and is worthy of praise by the players, staff, and fans alike.

Big improvement from USC DL

Last year, Thompkins played in 13 games, including six times as a starter. When taking all of the factors into consideration, it is safe to assume that coach Lynn is going to anticipate and expect to see action in each game for USC this season.

For someone who has put in the work to be in the current position that he is in, Thompkins is going to have a big role for the Trojans in 2025. This is the exact type of story that speaks to why the defense is going to continue to make the right strides.