Reclassified class of 2026 5-star TE Mark Bowman commits to USC

At 6'4.5", it does not matter for Mark Bowman when he ends up joining the college ranks. The tight end from Mater Dei could probably walk onto the field this year and contribute. There is a reason why a lot of programs were jockeying for his services.

As reported by On3's Hayes Fawcett, Bowman has now committed to USC. This is a highly significant move for a number of reasons.

Bowman is a talent with a lot of potential. In coach Lincoln Riley's offense and at his size and skill set, it is very easy to see the TE producing big-time numbers as a Trojan a year from now.

More importantly, it signifies a symbolic reestablishment of the Mater Dei to USC pipeline. It's known how important that connection between one of the top high schools in the nation is for ensuring continued, sustained success for the Trojans.

It is something that USC fans have seen not work in their favor, with some of the top SoCal recruits opting to go to other places. As is known, however, under GM Chad Bowden and coach Riley, the push to reinvigorate the recruiting efforts at the local high school level is becoming a critical point of emphasis for the program.

With Mater Dei student-athletes seriously considering and having the Trojans at the top of their list again, it does signify a shift back to how things were when USC was at the top of the sport.

Ready to be unleashed in USC system at the next level

In terms of Bowman specifically, it should say a lot that he is still ranked as one of the top prospects even after reclassifying from the class of 2027 to the class of 2026. His size and development are what allow him to not only come to campus a year early but also what should help ease the Division I transition when that time comes.

A good route runner and pass catcher, USC fans can start envisioning Bowman running through the opposing secondaries and racking up yards in this coach Riley offense. Earning the consideration and now commitment from one of the top offensive recruits in the country only further illustrates the belief that this Trojan team is on the cusp of making great leaps from what has been witnessed in recent memory.