USC welcomes elite defensive back as first commitment of 2027 recruiting cycle

The Trojans have landed their first commitment of the 2027 cycle, as standout defensive back Aaryn Washington from Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, CA, has decided to join the team. He announced his commitment live at the Navy All-American Game in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday.

Washington is the No. 9 cornerback and No. 80 overall prospect in the nation. His four-star rating cements his status as a blue-chip talent, and his local roots highlight USC’s clear strategy of keeping top-tier talent in California and at home with the Trojans.

Landing Washington wasn’t easy. Despite their close proximity, USC had to battle Alabama, Ohio State, Nebraska, and Washington for his signature. That list of programs shows just how highly regarded Aaryn is as a prospect, and it proves that USC is a real force to be reckoned with on the recruiting trail proving that 2026 was no fluke.

This marks USC’s first commitment of the 2027 cycle, and while they likely won’t bring in as many prospects as in 2026, the Trojans seem ready to compete for a top-five recruiting class. Washington’s pledge has already pushed USC solidly into the top ten in recruiting score rankings. The Trojans signed a No.1 recruiting class this past cycle featuring over 30 prospects.

Washington represents a continuation of USC’s dominance on the recruiting trail and their commitment to top regional talent. The Trojans are still active in the transfer portal, but that hasn’t slowed their aggressive approach at the high school level.