Versatile, hard-hitting Kennedy Urlacher transfers to USC

For some, offense is the most important component of football. Others insist on the mantra of defense winning championships. Having someone who does well and enjoys playing the often too overlooked special teams, that's something more of a rare combo.

Kennedy Urlacher played for Notre Dame this past season. He was part of the Marcus Freeman team that ended up making it to the National Championship in college football's first-ever 12-team playoff. He saw limited snaps in a good secondary group, but when he did step foot on the field, people noticed. That wasn't because of his last name either. The son of the former New Mexico Lobos player and longtime Chicago Bears linebacker is putting on excellent film for himself.

Listed as a safety, he's someone who feels comfortable playing in the box and going downhill, wherever the play develops. With his skill set and willingness to line up and do whatever is asked of him, coach D'Anton Lynn will be able to utilize Urlacher's skill set in a multitude of ways in the USC defense.

This is officially a go, as the rumored transfer from the Fighting Irish to the Trojans was announced by On3's Hayes Fawcett on Saturday. Urlacher will have three remaining years of eligibility. Having someone in the program to be able to develop and build around for the upcoming and future seasons is an exciting prospect.

As of now, it's unknown why the safety elected to hit the portal. The exact answer may never be fully revealed. For some, there is the chance of being able to more clearly make an immediate impact for a position group in a culture that brings the best out of players.

Continued recruiting success for Trojan staff

Under coach Lincoln Riley, many are finding a great degree of comfort and support with the Trojans while being challenged and pushed by those on the staff. Adding someone with Urlacher's well-rounded ability and competitiveness must have been something of a no-brainer. His name appeared under a 'do not contact' designation, suggesting that he knew where he'd want to land after leaving South Bend, Indiana.

Now in Los Angeles, he will be able to carve himself a nice role in the Cardinal and Gold and show why some of the top schools in the nation recruited him in the first place. Bringing in versatile players who are hungry is always an excellent choice to add to the roster. Urlacher will play a big role on defense this year for USC.