USC signing day superlatives: Luke Wafle shines bright in star-studded defensive haul

The USC Trojans secured the No. 1 recruiting class of 2026, driven largely by the addition of elite defensive talent. Of the 35 signees, 17 are defensive players, including two highly regarded five-star prospects.

Top of the Class

Leading the defensive unit in the class is cornerback Elbert Hill from Akron, Ohio, and edge rusher Luke Wafle from Middletown, New Jersey. Both signees have received five-star ratings from one or more major recruiting services, with ESPN ranking Hill as the nation’s No. 1 cornerback. Wafle, is ranked No. 4 nationally by Rivals and holds the unanimous distinction of being the No. 1 player in New Jersey across all recruiting platforms.

Best Position Group

The Trojans secured elite talent across all defensive positions, with the defensive line standing out as the strongest unit in this class. Alongside Wafle, blue-chip recruits Jimeon Winfield (#4 DL), Tomuhini Topui (#14 DL), Simote Katoanga (#21 EDGE), and Shaun Scott (#35 EDGE) bolster an already formidable group. Braeden Jones, Andrew Williams, Jake Johnson, and Malik Brooks join the defensive line unit, offering exceptional depth, with each ranking among the top 145 players at their position. Brooks has the potential to be a key element in the future of the Trojans rush defense as the defensive lineman is already registering in at 350 - pounds.

Most Impactful Signing

The 2026 class boasts numerous signees poised to make a significant impact on USC, but if only one stands out, it is Elbert Hill. Not only did USC secure a five-star defensive back from Ohio, directly out-recruiting the Buckeyes, a remarkable achievement in itself, but Hill, one of 32 early enrollees, possesses the talent to start immediately in the Trojans' secondary. Known for his ball-hawking skills, Hill recorded nine interceptions and 33 pass breakups during his senior season. The Trojans are acquiring an immediate difference-maker capable of transforming last season’s weaknesses into a major strength moving forward.

Most Electrifying

Talanoa Ili has the potential to be an exciting player for USC in the foreseeable future. The Trojans secured the No. 6 ranked linebacker in the nation, and the 6'3", 210-pound athlete possesses the athleticism and size to impact both the run and passing game. The Hawaii native recorded 16 tackles for loss and 53 total tackles during his senior season.

USC’s defensive signees have maintained their commitments for an extended period and share a familiarity with each other. The Trojans took an assertive approach in assembling talent this cycle, resulting in a group with the skills and potential to form the cornerstone of a formidable defensive unit in the years ahead.